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Maine grandmother graduates college at 88 years old

Joan Alexander, an 88-year-old grandmother, officially graduated from the University of Maine on June 9, 2025.
She left the university in 1959 without a degree after becoming pregnant and being barred from completing required student teaching due to outdated policies and societal expectations.
Her youngest daughter contacted UMaine to recognize Joan's previous work, leading the university to confirm she had fulfilled degree requirements in spirit decades earlier.
The university awarded her a Bachelor of Science in Education, making her one of UMaine's oldest graduates and filling a personal void Joan described as healing "a hole in my heart."
Joan's story inspired the 2025 graduating class and was highlighted by UMaine's president as a true example of perseverance, encouraging others to pursue their interests.

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Maine grandmother graduates college at 88 years old

An 88-year-old grandmother in Maine showed the world it’s never too late to achieve your dreams.

5 days ago·Minneapolis, United States

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88-Year-Old Woman Finally Earns College Degree After 65-Year Wait

Joan Alexander never gave up on a dream that began in the 1950s. At 88 years old, she’s now officially a college graduate — fulfilling a lifelong goal that was put on hold more than six decades ago.

4 days ago

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