Joan Alexander, an 88-year-old grandmother from New Hampshire, has finally achieved her dream of graduating from college, more than six decades after her education was interrupted due to pregnancy. Last month, Alexander received her long-awaited diploma from the University of Maine, fulfilling her aspiration of earning a degree in education. This achievement was made possible after her daughter, Tracy, contacted the university earlier this year.
Alexander expressed her joy and relief at finally receiving her diploma, stating that it filled a void in her heart. The University of Maine believes that Alexander may be the oldest graduate in the institution’s history.
Alexander’s journey to graduation was not a straightforward one. She was on track to graduate in 1959, but her plans were derailed when she became pregnant with her first child. At the time, the university did not permit pregnant students to complete their student teaching requirement, a prerequisite for graduation.
However, this year, university officials, including Justin Dimmel, the associate dean for the College of Education and Human Development, determined that Alexander’s experience as a full-time aide for a preschool program in the early 1980s fulfilled the student teaching requirement.
Dimmel expressed his admiration for Alexander’s determination to complete her undergraduate education, stating that her story was an inspiration to him, his colleagues, and the graduating class of 2025.
Although Alexander was unable to attend the commencement ceremony in person, her daughter Tracy and granddaughter Isabel Beck were present on her behalf. During the ceremony, University President Joan Ferrini-Mundy acknowledged Alexander’s achievement.
Alexander’s daughter Tracy expressed her gratitude to the university for recognizing her mother’s accomplishment. She said that the experience of attending the ceremony with her own daughter was deeply moving.
Alexander, who raised four daughters and often managed the household alone due to her husband’s service in the Coast Guard, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education. She and her husband now reside in New Hampshire with one of their daughters. Alexander continues to give back to her community through volunteer work at her church, local library, and an elementary school.
Alexander’s achievement holds special significance for her, as she was the only member of her immediate family without a college degree. She expressed that finally receiving her diploma gave her a sense of closure and accomplishment.