Annette Roberge, a 90-year-old great-grandmother from New Hampshire, recently achieved a lifelong dream by graduating from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). This remarkable accomplishment, decades in the making, serves as a powerful testament to the enduring power of dedication and the pursuit of knowledge at any age. Roberge’s story has captivated hearts worldwide, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their own aspirations, regardless of age or circumstance.
A Dream Deferred, But Never Abandoned
Roberge’s journey to graduation was not without its challenges. After tragically losing her husband in the Vietnam War in the 1970s, she initially enrolled at SNHU. However, the demands of raising five children as a single mother forced her to put her academic pursuits on hold. “You gotta go with priorities,” Roberge shared with Good Morning America. “It wouldn’t be fair to them to sacrifice them.” Despite the setback, Roberge never relinquished her dream of earning a college degree, holding onto the belief that she would one day return to her studies.
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A Triumphant Return to Academia
Decades later, Roberge discovered that she had already accumulated enough credits to earn an associate’s degree in business administration. SNHU, recognizing her remarkable perseverance, invited her to participate in their graduation ceremony and officially receive her diploma. The moment was a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. “It’s so unreal,” Roberge told Good Morning America upon receiving her degree. “I mean, I know [it’s real], I see it on the wall but it’s like still being in a dream world.”
Inspiration for Generations to Come
Roberge’s story resonated far beyond her personal achievement, quickly becoming a viral sensation. Her unwavering commitment to education, despite facing immense adversity, touched the hearts of people around the globe. She became a symbol of hope and resilience, proving that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing one’s dreams. “Don’t give up on your dream,” Roberge advised in an interview with The Boston Globe. “You’re never, never too old to learn.” She emphasized the transformative power of education, stating, “If you learn, it widens your own horizon of things, your own knowledge of what’s going on in the world. … It makes a better world for you and of those around you.”
Continuing the Educational Journey
Roberge’s graduation is not the end of her academic journey. She plans to continue her studies at SNHU, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This unwavering commitment to lifelong learning serves as a further inspiration to her family, friends, and the wider community. SNHU expressed immense pride in Roberge’s accomplishment, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Annette earning her associate’s degree, and are excited to continue dreaming and learning alongside her as she pursues her bachelor’s degree with us.” Roberge’s story highlights the importance of continuous personal growth and the enriching experience of higher education, regardless of when one chooses to embark on that path.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Annette Roberge
Q: How old is Annette Roberge?
A: Annette Roberge is 90 years old.
Q: What degree did Annette Roberge earn?
A: She earned an associate’s degree in business administration.
Q: From which university did Annette Roberge graduate?
A: She graduated from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).
Q: What are Annette Roberge’s future plans?
A: She plans to continue her education at SNHU and pursue a bachelor’s degree.
Q: Why did Annette Roberge delay her college education?
A: She postponed her studies to raise her five children after her husband died in the Vietnam War.
