59 Graduates Age 17 to 60 Walk Stage in Livingston

When Lamar State College Orange held commencement on May 14, the youngest graduate was just 17 years old. The oldest was 60.

The ceremony at the Polk County Commerce Center in Livingston proved that it's never too early or too late to invest in your education. Fifty-nine students earned their degrees, representing a remarkable range of ages and backgrounds united by one common thread: determination.

The statistics tell a powerful story. Sixty-eight percent of graduates were first-generation college students, meaning they're the first in their families to earn a degree.

"Each graduate represents a story of determination, sacrifice and hope," said LSCO President Dr. Wendy Elmore. The ceremony marked the second year the college has held commencement at the Texas State University System Polk County Center, bringing the celebration closer to home for rural students.

Why This Inspires

This graduation shows what happens when barriers to education come down. By offering classes close to home through partnerships with local communities, LSCO made it possible for working parents, career changers, and traditional students to pursue degrees without relocating or commuting hours away.

First-generation college graduates often become catalysts for change in their families. Their children are more likely to attend college, creating ripple effects that can lift entire communities.

The age diversity among graduates demolishes the myth that college is only for 18-year-olds fresh out of high school. Whether you're a teenager with big dreams or a grandmother pursuing a long-delayed goal, education remains accessible.

Kristin Walker, Associate Vice President of Statewide Partnerships, emphasized the power of collaboration. "Through these partnerships, students have more opportunities to pursue their education close to home and take meaningful steps toward their future," she said.

The college serves nearly 6,000 students across East Texas, offering associate degrees and certificates in academic, technical, and workforce fields. Its focus on affordability and flexibility makes higher education possible for students who might otherwise be left behind.

These 59 graduates didn't just earn diplomas; they proved that with the right support, determination knows no age limit.