Nationwide — Blannie Ward, a 70-year-old African American woman from Ahoskie, North Carolina, finally earned her high school diploma after years of interruptions and persistence. She completed the milestone through a college career readiness program and graduated from Roanoke-Chowan Community College.
Ward received her diploma during the college’s recent commencement ceremony. She was the oldest graduate among 186 students who completed programs that year. The school awarded her high school equivalency through its College and Career Readiness program, according to KLTV.
Her education journey began back in 2012 when she enrolled in night classes to work toward her GED. She had to pause her studies when several family members became seriously ill, forcing her to step away from school.
Years later, after retiring from a 33-year career at Perdue Farms, Ward decided to return to her education. She said retirement left her wanting something meaningful to focus on, which pushed her to finish what she had started.
“I said I’m going back to school because I didn’t have anything to do,” Ward said.
Roanoke-Chowan Community College supported her return to the classroom. Career readiness director Miranda Lassiter and instructors encouraged her throughout the process, especially when Ward doubted whether she could complete the program.
Ward stayed committed and gradually worked through her studies until she was ready to graduate in her cap and gown. She described the moment as one of pride after returning to school later in life and completing her goal.
She is not stopping with her diploma. Ward plans to continue her education by pursuing training as a certified nurse aide.
“You’re never too old. You’re never too old,” Ward said. “I’m just proud I came back.”