Remarkable Journey: 83-Year-Old Johnnie W. Jones Achieves PhD in Sociology, Pursues Bachelor's Degree in Law
Despite facing health setbacks at the age of 83, Jones persevered, recovering from a serious medical condition and successfully earning his PhD in Human Ecology. Unwavering in his pursuit of knowledge, he now sets his sights on a Bachelor's degree in Law.
Binye-lum 
In a testament to resilience and a pursuit of lifelong learning, 83-year-old retired military officer Johnnie W. Jones has earned a PhD in Sociology from the Louisiana State University (LSU), becoming the oldest Black person to receive an LSU degree.
Jones, who joined the United States Marine Corps at 18, overcame early challenges, dropping out of school during World War II to support his family. After retiring from the military in 1973, he pursued night classes to obtain his Bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of Hawaii. Undeterred by age, he then proceeded to LSU for his Master's degree in Social Work, subsequently embarking on a journey towards a PhD in Human Ecology.
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Despite facing health setbacks at the age of 83, Jones persevered, recovering from a serious medical condition and successfully earning his PhD in Human Ecology. Unwavering in his pursuit of knowledge, he now sets his sights on a Bachelor's degree in Law.
"Age is an artificial constraint. There’s nothing magical about 65, 75, 95, 105. Your behavior, your activities should be guided by your physical fitness and your mental fitness," Jones emphasized, challenging societal norms surrounding age and achievement.
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Reports from LSU indicate that Dr. Jones has already initiated the admissions process for LSU Law School at the age of 83.Dr. Cassandra Chaney of LSU praised Jones, stating, "Johnnie is a testament to not allowing difficult circumstances in one’s life to keep one from pressing forward or altering one’s worldview when new information challenges that previously-held view."
She added, "Dr. Jones approaches each day with a sense of wonder, challenges himself, and makes the conscious and deliberate effort to attain his goals. Dr. Jones’s resilience is a testament to who he is as a person and he is a sterling example of the strength that an LSU Tiger embodies."
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Jones's extraordinary journey serves as an inspiration, highlighting the power of determination and continuous pursuit of knowledge, regardless of age.
