A determined 70-year-old woman named Blannie Ward has achieved a remarkable milestone, returning to school decades later to earn her diploma from Roanoke-Chowan Community College in the United States.
Her achievement also made her the oldest graduate of the institution, proving that it is never too late to pursue education and fulfill a dream.
Ward completed her high school equivalency credential through the college’s College and Career Readiness program after years away from the classroom.
Ward's Story and How She Did It
Her journey to this achievement took her years. She first began taking night classes for her GED in 2012, but had to stop after several family members, including her mother, became seriously ill.
“I had to quit after my mother and others got sick,” she explained. Even after stepping away from school, she never gave up on learning.
Following her retirement from a 33-year career at Perdue Farms, Ward decided to return to school because she wanted a new purpose and challenge in life.
“After I came out on disability, I didn’t have anything to do during the day, so I said, ‘I’m going back to school,’” she said. And when she returned, Miranda Lassiter, the college’s career readiness director, encouraged her not to doubt herself.
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She was like, ‘I don’t think I can do it,’ and I said, ‘Ms. Blannie, trust and believe me. As long as I’m here, you’re going to get through this,’” Lassiter recalled.
Ward embraced the learning process wholeheartedly. She especially enjoyed using technology, learning how to search for information online, and having teachers patiently explain difficult subjects like math and science.
“I enjoyed the kids, and I enjoyed learning. The teachers break everything down, and they give you a chance to really understand,” she said.
Before retirement, Ward worked in sewing factories, a convenience store, and later spent more than three decades at Perdue Farms. She credits her sons, church family, teachers, and loved ones for helping her stay motivated throughout the journey.
“My sons encouraged me to finish. Ms. Miranda Lassiter also encouraged me a lot. She’s always saying, ‘You’re never too old,” Ward said.
She stated that her graduation moment is deeply emotional for her.
“I thank God that I get the chance to wear that cap and gown and walk across that stage,” she said. “I’m just overjoyed.”
But her journey is not ending there. Inspired by years of caring for sick family members, Ward now plans to continue her education by pursuing a Certified Nurse Aide license.
She hopes her story will inspire others who may feel discouraged about returning to school later in life.
“Don’t worry about what you think you can’t do,” Ward advised. “Don’t let negative talk stop you. You’re never too old.”
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