An 89-year-old woman who recently got a college degree is not stopping there, she’s already working towards a bachelor’s degree.
Ella Washington, who graduated with an associate degree in interdisciplinary studies, is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in history at Liberty University in Virginia, according to the college.
In a statement by Ellen Mitchell, one of her 12 children, her mother has always been a lifelong learner.
Ellen Mitchell said
“Her desire for learning and for pursuing an education became a family tradition.
“She taught all of her children how to read, write, and do math prior to their beginning school, just as her grandmother taught her and her siblings.”
Mitchell also said she worked hard doing whatever she could to make sure they were taken care of.
As for her drive to learn more about history, the oldest graduate in Liberty’s Class of 2018 said,
“Everybody should know their history and learn more about it … There’s nothing wrong with learning more…
“Education will help you make the best life for yourselves and those who come after you.”
The 89-year-old has worked a variety of jobs to support her children, ranging from a custodian at the Pentagon to an office assistant to a certified nursing assistant at an adult daycare.
According to USA Today, the 89-year-old stopped working about six years ago.
