‘Finish your Diploma’ Campaign marks 15 years of empowering adult learners

The Finish Your Diploma campaign, launched in 2010 by the Ad Council and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation (DGLF), has released new public service advertisements (PSAs) to celebrate 15 years of empowering adults to complete their high school equivalency, such as a GED or HiSET.

Over the past decade and a half, the national campaign has become a vital resource for the nearly 30 million U.S. adults without a high school diploma, connecting more than 2.18 million people to free local education centers through FinishYourDiploma.org.

Since its launch, the campaign has:

Driven 9.26 million visits to FinishYourDiploma.org

Connected 2.18 million adults to local education programs

Secured more than $384 million in donated media to spread awareness

Inspired millions by amplifying real learner stories nationwide

Adults without a high school diploma face higher unemployment and significantly lower earning potential, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Campaign tracking shows that viewers of the Ad Council’s PSAs were 74% more likely to take steps toward earning their high school equivalency in the past year.

New Creative Spotlights Graduate Success

This year’s new creative features Elizabeth, who earned her diploma at age 38 and went on to become a school nurse. The PSA follows her journey of resilience, family support, and community impact.

Elizabeth: “If you can take that first step, the sky’s the limit” — reflects the campaign’s mission: breaking down barriers to education and empowering adults to build brighter futures.

Heidi Arthur, Chief Campaign Development Officer, the Ad Council: “Elizabeth’s story, along with the countless others we’ve highlighted over 15 years, reminds us how transformative education can be — not only for learners but for their families and communities. We’re deeply proud of this campaign and of the partners who’ve made its impact possible.”

Partnerships That Drive Change

Alongside national PSAs, the campaign leverages strategic partnerships in media, marketing and technology to extend its reach. A new video marking the 15-year milestone honors these creative and media partners who have made the initiative a sustained success.

Denine Torr, Executive Director, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation: “Simply knowing where to go for support can be a major barrier. For 15 years, Finish Your Diploma has been breaking down that barrier. With the support of our incredible partners, we hope this new PSA inspires more adults to use the tools available to them and take that first step toward their dreams.”

The campaign is supported by generous donated placements across TV, radio, digital, social, print, and out-of-home channels.

www.adcouncil.org

www.dgliteracy.org

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