Mother and Daughter Graduate Together from the Same University on the Same Day, Setting a New Record

Barbara and Tanisha Wiggins made history by graduating together from Onondaga Community College with Associate of Science degrees in Human Services, inspiring others with their perseverance despite personal and academic challenges.

Barbara Wiggins, 58, and her daughter Tanisha Wiggins, 36, from New York, made history by graduating together from Onondaga Community College (OCC) in Syracuse, both earning Associate of Science degrees in Human Services during the same ceremony.

Barbara’s academic journey began after obtaining her GED, driven by her desire to help others and demonstrate that it’s never too late to pursue an education. A mother of five and grandmother of 12, she worked as a doula and found motivation in returning to school.

“It was about helping people and continuing my education,” Barbara said. “I didn’t finish high school, so going back to earn my GED was a big step. And I loved it,” she shared with GMA.

Barbara enrolled at OCC in 2021, initially feeling out of place as a nontraditional student. However, she soon found comfort in the supportive environment created by her professors and classmates. “At first, I was hesitant,” Barbara recalled. “There was an 18-year-old in my class, and I said, ‘I have a grandson that’s 18.’ We all just started laughing, and that helped me feel more at ease.”

Barbara credits her professor for encouraging class interaction, which made the experience more enjoyable. “She fostered a welcoming environment, which made everything so much easier,” she said.

Despite the challenges, Barbara remained dedicated, attending classes regularly despite any weather conditions. Her determination culminated in her walking across the stage alongside her daughter.

For Tanisha, the path to graduation was equally challenging. She initially enrolled at OCC at 18 but struggled with depression, leading to frequent hospitalizations that disrupted her studies. “I wasn’t ready at all. Every other month, I was in the hospital, which kept me from finishing school,” Tanisha explained.

After having two children, now 2 and 1, Tanisha decided to return to school and create a better future for her family. She credits OCC’s Return to Complete program and on-site daycare for helping her balance her studies and parenting responsibilities.

Both Barbara and Tanisha hope their story inspires others to pursue education regardless of their circumstances. “I didn’t give up because I wanted my grandchildren to see that if I could do it, they could too. Don’t overthink it, just do it. You’ll face challenges, but you’ll overcome them,” Barbara shared.

“My mom proved everyone wrong who thought she wouldn’t make it. She pushed through, even with tutoring, and attended class every day without fail, regardless of the weather. I’m really proud of her,” Tanisha added.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SCHOLARSHIP REGION