Published April 24. 2026 11:08AM
The Pennsylvania Dutch class graduation was held April 9 at Jordan Lutheran Church, 5103 Snowdrift Road, Orefield.
The celebration began with a potluck dinner 6:30 p.m., hosted by instructors Jean and Dave Adam.
A total of 46 students graduated from the program, which focuses on preserving and teaching the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect.
The evening featured a mix of Pennsylvania Dutch songs, personal anecdotes from students and organizational updates.
Certificates were distributed to graduates, and several upcoming events were announced, including a gathering at the Kempton Hotel June 18 and potential future events at the Evergreen Club.
Adding a lighthearted moment to the evening, student Michelle Wagaman wore a T-shirt from the Point Phillips Hotel: Tavern and Smokehouse which read, “You ain’t Dutch, if you ain’t much,” a popular phrase expressing Pennsylvania Dutch pride.
A fellow attendee jokingly suggested ordering dozens of the shirts for the next graduation ceremony.
The program concluded with student Ila Dietrich presenting a gift to longtime instructors Jean and Dave Adam in appreciation of their dedication.
The Adams announced plans to offer another 13-week session beginning Sept. 10.
They also noted they are developing a 58-page supplemental guide with additional grammar materials to support dialect learning.
PRESS PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HIRSCHCraig Siegfried with guitar and Dave Adam begin the meeting with sing along “America” in PA Dutch.
Pictured are Karen Loar, Lee Burkhart, Dr. William Donner, Nadine Sevrain, Nate Berk and Kevin Berk.
Stan Hamm, with is wife June, proudly shows his PA Dutch certificate. He said he grew up on a farm in Leather Corner Post.
Glenn Gressley sings two humorous songs in PA Dutch. He asked Dave Adam, “How did you land this trophy wife? He sang a tribute to Jean and Dave in honor of their 65th wedding anniversary April 15.
Dave and Jean Adam receive a gift for teaching the class.
