Family Triumph: Mother and Son Graduate Together, Setting a Record at UMGC
The Patton duo's inspiring journey began with a promise made by young Immanuel to his mother, Carolyn, that they would earn their degrees together. This pledge resurfaced nearly 20 years later as Immanuel graduated with a bachelor's degree in public safety administration, while Carolyn received a bachelor's degree in humanities from UMGC.
AKACHI NOEL 
In a remarkable testament to familial commitment and perseverance, Carolyn Patton, 63, and her son, Immanuel Patton, 23, achieved an extraordinary milestone by graduating together from the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC). Their joint accomplishment, almost two decades in the making, fulfills a pledge made when Immanuel was just five years old.
The Patton duo's inspiring journey began with a promise made by young Immanuel to his mother, Carolyn, that they would earn their degrees together. This pledge resurfaced nearly 20 years later as Immanuel graduated with a bachelor's degree in public safety administration, while Carolyn received a bachelor's degree in humanities from UMGC.
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Both faced academic hurdles during their educational journey. Immanuel, at one point, grappled with a 1.0 grade point average and academic probation. However, their mutual support, study sessions, and encouragement proved instrumental in overcoming obstacles and achieving their degrees.
Carolyn reflected on her son's encouragement, stating, "[My son] says: 'No, if I can do it, you can do it. We're going to do it together' … I had a meltdown, but I got back on track." The duo's commitment to each other and their shared dream fueled their resilience.
The Pattons celebrated their joint achievement at UMGC's winter commencement ceremony on December 16, where they walked across the stage together. Carolyn received her Bachelor of Arts degree in humanities, while Immanuel received his Bachelor of Science degree in public safety administration.
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University of Maryland Global Campus President Gregory Fowler commended the Pattons as exemplary students, expressing pride in Immanuel's commitment to supporting his mother.
With their degrees in hand, Carolyn plans to leverage her new qualification to secure a pay raise at work, while Immanuel is set to begin a role as a success coach at UMGC, guiding students on their unique college journeys.
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The Patton family's story is a testament to the enduring power of familial bonds and the pursuit of shared dreams. Carolyn and Immanuel Patton's record-setting graduation exemplifies resilience, determination, and the profound impact that mutual support can have on achieving educational milestones. Their shared accomplishment serves as an inspiration to families and individuals alike, highlighting the transformative power of education and the fulfillment of long-held promises.
