by Shawn Nowlin
If Lisa Jones’ life was a novel, right now would be the celebratory and sense of accomplishment chapter. On May 21, Jones was among the 179 undergraduate and graduate students at Hollins University Virginia’s first chartered women’s college at which men are only admitted to the graduate level programs.
University alumna Callie Virginia “Ginny” Smith Grande, the first woman prosecutor in Alabama, served as this year’s guest speaker. “My Hollins liberal arts education was bedrock, and because of your success and persistence, you have that firm foundation to support whatever you choose to do in the future,” Grande said to all in attendance.
Jones’ journey to walking across the stage was rather unconventional. Twenty-six years ago, Jones, a Danville area native, began but never finished her thesis due to a combination of factors. During the pandemic, she was more motivated than ever to complete her Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (M.A.L.S.). Once she made up her mind that she was indeed going to finish what she started, nothing was going to get in her way.
“I decided to make better use of my time and finish my degree when COVID hit. I want people to know that it’s never too late to finish what you started,” Jones said on Graduation Day. ”I simply want to be an inspiration to others to never give up on their dreams. It won’t always be easy, but if you keep trying and surround yourself with supportive individuals, you will be amazed at just how far you can go.”
Attending college at a later age may be uncomfortable for some. In Jones’ case, she says her experience not only provided her with new perspectives, but a sense of community too.
According to data collected from the US Census, the number of people ages 45 and older whose highest degree is a master’s has surpassed 25 million. Despite stereotypes, Black women collectively remain the most educated group in America.
On Jones’ determination, a Hollins University spokesperson said, “Adversity is something that everyone goes through. It would have been easy for Lisa to throw in the towel and give up. Instead, she strategized a plan and saw it all the way through. We couldn’t be prouder of what she was able to accomplish and what her story represents.”
