With “Pomp and Circumstance” playing, Kellogg Community College students, family and friends gathered at Kellogg Arena on Thursday, May 15, to celebrate the Class of 2025, consisting of 1,109 graduates across all programs.
Among those graduates was 87-year-old Maude Bristol-Perry, receiving her Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education, making her the oldest graduate in KCC history. This achievement is just one of many that she now holds as a longtime resident and community leader.
An alumnus of Battle Creek Central, Bristol-Perry holds a long resume of public service in the local community. As an advocate for accessible childcare, she opened and operated a childcare center in Battle Creek with an emphasis on education in 1973. Her career has also included time in elected office, serving in the roles of Calhoun County Supervisor, vice mayor and mayor of Battle Creek.
Addressing her fellow students, Bristol-Perry thanked her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, referring to the degree as the “silver lining in (her) golden years”.
Along with Bristol-Perry, approximately 400 other graduates in KCC’s 67th class walked across the stage to receive their degrees and step into the next chapter of their lives.
This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: 87-year-old former mayor among new Kellogg Community College graduates
Reporting by Becca Mahon, Battle Creek Enquirer / Battle Creek Enquirer
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
