'It's never too late': Grandmother with education degree highlights SFCC graduation

May 17, 2026 - 05:58

Santa Fe Community College celebrated a milestone Saturday, honoring 635 graduates in a ceremony that saw a 16% increase from the previous year. Among the crowd of new alumni was a grandmother who earned her degree in education, embodying the college's message that it is never too late to pursue a dream. She walked across the stage with her family cheering from the audience, a moment she described as the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice.

The graduating class was notably diverse in experience and background. College officials highlighted that 78% of the graduates were first-generation students, meaning they are the first in their families to complete a college degree. This statistic underscores SFCC's role as a gateway for those seeking to break cycles and build new opportunities. The ceremony featured speeches from faculty and student leaders, who emphasized resilience and the value of community support.

For the grandmother, the degree represents more than a personal achievement. She plans to use her new credentials to teach in local elementary schools, hoping to inspire young students the way her own instructors once inspired her. Her story resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a reminder that education has no age limit. As the graduates tossed their caps into the air, the message was clear: at SFCC, determination and hard work can lead to transformation at any stage of life.