Georgia Woman with Down Syndrome Earns Historic Degree

Breezy White walked across the stage at Georgia Highlands College this week to receive her Associate of Science degree, making history as the first person with Down syndrome to graduate from GHC and earn a college degree in the entire state of Georgia.

"I have always dreamed of going to college," White said. "I wanted to be the first person with Down syndrome to do this at GHC, and I did it."

White chose GHC because the campus felt like family. Over her time there, she excelled in sociology, English, history, and art classes while also earning her CPR certification.

Statistics class proved challenging, but White didn't let that stop her. "I practiced over and over, took lots of notes, and stayed focused," she explained.

Her hard work paid off in remarkable ways. White earned a perfect 4.0 GPA during spring 2024, landing her on the President's List with straight A's.

She also competed in multiple speech competitions, earning runner-up honors in one event. For four consecutive years, she participated in the college's Academic Showcase, highlighting her crocheting talents.

In 2024, White received the Honors Award for Excellence in Social Sciences and was recognized as one of the top psychology students at GHC. Professor Elizabeth Dose presented the award, acknowledging White's outstanding achievements.

Why This Inspires

White's impact extends far beyond her own graduation. She serves on the board for My Voice My Participation My Board through the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta, where she's been active since being named Buddy of the Year in 2016.

Her advocacy work recently took her to the Georgia State Capitol during National Down Syndrome Day, where she met state representatives and opened new doors for others. Ruby's Rainbow raised enough support to establish a scholarship in her honor, ensuring future students can follow her path.

On campus, White stayed active in the Psychology Club and Woman to Woman Club. At her church, she serves as an assistant teacher in the youth program, mentoring the next generation.

White credits her professors, classmates, friends, and family for believing in her capabilities. "All of my professors were supportive and helpful," she said. "I feel like they became my friends. They believed in me."

Looking ahead, White plans to continue acting classes, earn her driver's license, and enter a medical assistant program. Her ultimate goal is working with children, possibly as a teacher.

Her message to others facing obstacles is clear and powerful: "I hope people see that someone with Down syndrome is capable of achieving great things when given the opportunity and support. Everyone deserves to be seen for their abilities."