78-year-old former seamstress now is college graduate

HOMEWOOD, Ala. — Nothing is going to stop Vivian Cunningham and what she has done has been an inspiration to others.

>> Read more trending news

Cunningham, at the age of 78, has graduated from Samford University this past weekend, WVTM reported.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies.

The former seamstress and mother of two worked for 13 years as a custodian for Alabama Power and worked her way up the ladder, overseeing all of the company’s outside mail.

>> Need something to lift your spirits? Read more uplifting news

She retired in 1992 but was able to use the company’s tuition reimbursement to further her education, WBMA reported.

This isn’t the first degree Cunningham earned. She has an associate’s degree in paralegal studies from Virginia College.

It took her six years to finish her bachelor’s, WBMA reported. But she’s not stopping. She has her eyes set on getting a master’s degree after taking a slight break.

She’s also inspiring her daughter to pursue her education and earn her doctorate.

“If she can complete her bachelor’s degree at 78 years old, then why wouldn’t I continue my higher educational journey? I wholeheartedly appreciate her strength and influence on my life and I am extremely proud of her,” Tarra Barnes told WVTM.

On Air95.1 WAPE - Jacksonville's #1 Hit Music Station Logo

mobile apps

Everything you love about wape.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!