95 Year-Old Woman Becomes Oldest College Graduate

Grandmother of Thirteen Receives Her Diploma

Cullen Park
When students talk about social studies in the classroom, their discussion is fueled by their textbook knowledge on World War II rather than their personal experiences. This, however, isn't the case with Nola Ochs, the world's oldest person to receive a college diploma. At ninety-five years old, Ochs is able to contribute her fascinating perspective to her twenty year-old classmates with her memories of everything from the Civil Rights movements to the disco revolution.

Nola Ochs didn't begin her college education in the 1970's after her husband died. Instead of taking up crocheting or gardening, she enrolled in Dodge City Community College for entertainment. "I wanted something to do. I attended a couple of classes and I enjoyed it. I know now I enjoy a learning situation, someplace where I can learn," the elderly woman stated in a recent interview with the local Kansas press.

Despite pausing her education after almost ninety credit hours, she picked it back up when she moved to Fort Hays, Kansas. The grandmother of thirteen finished her final twenty-nine hours in pursuit of a B.A. in History at Fort Hays State University. As the state governor handed Ochs her diploma, the crowd, which included relatives from all over the country, gave her a standing ovation. The graduating class also included Ochs' granddaughter, Alexandra Ochs.

In addition to being the world's oldest college graduate, Nola Ochs hopes to be an inspiration to elderly across the nation. "If I can encourage older people not just to sit on the couch and watch television, to get out and do something, it's such a good feeling," Ochs said. Her teachers agree. According to one history teacher, "When I first heard that Nola was on campus I was thrilled to death. I wish more people who would be in her position would have the drive to excel that she does."

Don't count out Ochs yet, however. She recently stated that she is considering a master's degree.

http://www.fhsu.edu/leader/2006/08/24/NolaOchsisMakingtheGradeat94
http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/05/13/lifelong.learner.ap/index.html

Published by Cullen Park

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  • Nola Ochs began her college education in the 1970's after her husband's death.
  • Ochs finished up her twenty-nine hours at Fort Hays State University.
  • Ochs recieved her degree in History and General Studies.

5 Comments

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  • amt4/16/2009

    what a student to be admired. she has been my inspiration from the day i read the news. she will be even more now that i have decided to take the plunge. i am half her age (a little younger even) and always thought mine was a dream to give u. thank you Nola. you go girl.

  • A.M. Morgan8/17/2008

    Wonderful. She is truely an inspiration.

  • gigtr6/4/2007

    tyghtythfhfhdgggfdf

  • Alyce Rocco5/23/2007

    Love it! We need more front page news about people like this, then the same old tired stories that are everywhere for one to read. Thank you for sharing.

  • Susan5/15/2007

    Check your facts - it's not Fort Hays, KS, it's just Hays.

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