99-Year-Old Granny Graduates From College

Follow your dreams, at any age. 99-year-old woman, Doreetha Daniels has achieved her goal of earning a college degree before her 100th birthday.

Last Friday, she was awarded her associates degree in social sciences from the College of Canyons (COC) in Santa Clarita, California, at age 99.

She has lived through some of the greatest moments in U.S. history: the Great Depression, Word War II, the Civil Rights movement, the first man landing on the moon, and the birth of the Internet and the digital age.



Described by the college as “one of the most dedicated and hardworking students in class,” Daniels could often be found studying before classes and working with tutors at the campus’ learning center.

“Doreetha is a living testament to the saying, ‘If there is a will, there is a way,’ ” said counseling faculty member Liz Shaker, who helped Daniels fulfill her graduation requirements.

“Her desire to get out of bed each day and come to school and face the challenges in and outside of the classroom inspired us all. She is truly an amazing woman who has impacted my life and I feel so fortunate that I was able to experience her journey alongside her.”

Daniels said her grandchildren, who were working on masters’ degrees, inspired her to begin pursuing her own education in 2009.

In an interview with KTLA 5, Daniels advised younger generations to never give up on their dreams