Father and Son Make History by Graduating Together from U.S. University

A devoted father and son made history as the first in their family to earn college degrees—graduating together from William Paterson University in a powerful celebration of perseverance, reconciliation, and shared dreams.

In a heartwarming and historic moment, 63-year-old Duvinson Jeanty and his 27-year-old son, Benjamin Jeanty, graduated on the same day from William Paterson University in New Jersey—becoming the first members of their family to earn a university degree.

For Benjamin, a first-generation American, walking the stage was already a dream come true. But sharing that experience with his father made the milestone deeply personal and unforgettable.

“I always knew I wanted to graduate from college,” Benjamin said. “But doing it alongside my father? That’s beyond anything I ever imagined.”

Benjamin earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, while his father received his degree in finance—a journey that began over a decade ago. Duvinson, who emigrated from Haiti to the U.S. in 1983, decided to return to school later in life despite working full-time as a bus driver and caring for his aging mother.

He began his academic path at Passaic County Community College, earning an associate degree in 2016, and pressed on toward his bachelor’s degree, often attending classes after long overnight shifts.

His perseverance left a lasting impression on Benjamin, who had once paused his own education after enrolling at Rutgers University. Motivated by his father’s dedication, Benjamin returned to school years later while working part-time at a special needs institution.

The father and son duo reconciled after a period of strained relations, and Benjamin eventually transferred to William Paterson University so he could complete his studies alongside his dad.

“What better way to show my love and appreciation than to graduate with him?” Benjamin reflected. “I thought I’d be the first in the family to graduate, but sharing that honor with my father means even more.”

Now, Benjamin is planning to pursue a master’s degree in urban policy analysis. Duvinson has launched Genevieve Investment Solutions—a financial advisory firm named after his late mother—with the mission of helping families, especially first-time homebuyers, achieve financial independence.

Their inspiring story is a testament to the power of persistence, family, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son determined to change their family’s legacy.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SCHOLARSHIP REGION