It’s Never Too Late

Great-grandmother earns college degree at 78-years-old.

Vivian Cunningham is quite a woman. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she is busy. Yet, she managed to earn her college degree this year as well. On May 8, the 78-year-old graduated from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.

Cunningham is no stranger to hard work. She worked as a custodian and then a mail room attendant at the Alabama Power Company while raising two children by herself. She retired in 1992, and began to complete her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies. She slowly worked towards her degree while raising her children, Donald and Tarra. A testament to her positive impact on the workplace, Alabama Power Company reimbursed her college tuition in full.

When asked about her recent accomplishment, Cunningham stated, “The only thing I can say is I was just elated. It feels good to be, you know, have gone through that educational process.”

Cunningham has big plans. She hopes to pursue her master’s degree. She was invited to speak with “World News Tonight” and was asked to share a few words.

She began, “I would like to tell all the viewers that if you have a dream, and you are passionate about that dream, pursue it.” She finished, “Don’t let anyone tell you that it can’t be done.” Cunningham is a shining example of putting your mind to something and achieving it, despite the twists and turns that may arise.