In a remarkable display of perseverance and dedication, 96-year-old Violet Edwards has earned her college degree, setting a record as the oldest African American woman to graduate from college. Edwards received her degree from Mercy College in New York, achieving this milestone with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Her accomplishment also places her as the fifth-oldest person in the world to graduate from college and the oldest person in Florida to earn a degree.
A Lifetime of Firsts
Born in 1925 in Kensington, Jamaica, Edwards was the youngest of three 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren. She distinguished herself early on as an avid reader and an excellent student, becoming the first in her village to attend Happy Grove High School on a full academic scholarship during World War II. Despite the challenges of the era, she passed her Senior Cambridge exams, now known as the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate, even as her exams had to be sent to England for grading amidst wartime dangers.
Career and Family Commitments
After high school, financial constraints prevented Edwards from pursuing further education immediately. Instead, she joined the workforce, building a successful career in the Jamaica Postal Service. Edwards quickly rose through the ranks to become the first female regional inspector, overseeing multiple post offices across the island.
Her career, however, was not her sole focus. Edwards devoted much of her life to ensuring her daughter, Christine Edwards, achieved her educational goals. Christine went on to become the medical director of the Florida Perinatal Center, LLC. Edwards’ commitment to her family saw her working tirelessly to support her daughter’s education and professional endeavors.
Return to Education
In the early 1980s, Edwards enrolled in the College of New Rochelle in New York but had to leave due to financial difficulties. Despite this setback, her determination to complete her education never waned. She balanced work, family, and her educational aspirations, eventually deciding to return to college after many years.
Overcoming Obstacles
Upon her return to academia, Edwards faced another challenge: the College of New Rochelle had closed, and not all of her 84 earned credits could be transferred. Undeterred, she enrolled at Mercy College, opting for an Associate of Science degree. Adapting to modern technology and online classes was a significant shift for Edwards, who was used to traditional pen-and-paper methods. Yet, she embraced these changes, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Edwards’ journey was further complicated by a breast cancer diagnosis just before her final year of college. Despite undergoing surgery and radiation treatment, she remained committed to her studies, ultimately graduating with highest honors.
Recognition and Legacy
Violet Edwards’ remarkable achievement has been widely recognized. The City of Parkland, Florida, where she resides, honored her with a recognition certificate at a city commission meeting. The Jamaican Consulate General in Miami also issued a proclamation celebrating her academic success. Her story has inspired many, emphasizing that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams.
Reflecting on her journey, Edwards shared her message with the world: “It’s never too late. Look at me—how I started again, restarted, and moved towards my goal. I did it.” Her words and actions serve as a powerful reminder of the value of perseverance and lifelong learning.
Violet Edwards’ life is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the unwavering pursuit of education. Her story continues to inspire people of all ages to achieve their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
Kwaku Boakye Gyamfi, a 22-year-old from Cape Coast, Ghana, has made history by becoming the youngest medical doctor in the country. Graduating with honors from the School of Medical Sciences at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Kwaku was named the “Best Graduating Student in Surgery,” a remarkable achievement that underscores his dedication and intellect.
Born in April 2001 to Dr. and Mrs. Gyamfi, Kwaku was raised in a family that values education and hard work. His father is a Business and Financial Advisor, while his mother is a caterer and businesswoman. Kwaku is the second 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 and the only son among four siblings. His parents, originally from Sekyere Central in the Ashanti Region, now reside in Accra.
Kwaku’s educational journey began at the tender age of five when he started at Danem Royal Montessori School in Accra. He later attended several other schools, including Good Shepherd International School, Oregon International School, and Startrite Montessori School, before completing his basic education in 2014 with an impressive aggregate of 06.
At 13, Kwaku joined Prempeh College Senior High School, one of Ghana’s prestigious institutions, where he excelled academically. He graduated at the age of 16 with an aggregate of 07, showcasing his exceptional academic abilities. His outstanding performance earned him a place at the UCC School of Medical Sciences, where he began his medical studies after passing a rigorous interview process. Read more about Kwaku here.
