At the age of 105, Virginia “Ginger” Hislop earned her master’s degree from Stanford University, completing her studies 83 years after she first began her program at the Stanford Graduate School of Education (GSE).
Hislop started her studies back in 1936 but paused to marry her boyfriend, who was an ROTC student called to serve in World War II. After the war, she pursued a career in education and spent many years working in the field. Despite her busy career, she always intended to finish her degree.
Finally, after many decades, she returned to Stanford to complete her studies. During the commencement ceremony, GSE Dean Daniel Schwartz commended her for her strong advocacy for equity in education. He praised her lifelong dedication to making education fair and accessible for everyone.
Hislop’s achievement was celebrated by her family, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who cheered for her at the ceremony. She expressed her pride in her long career and her contributions to education.
“I’ve waited a long time for this,” Hislop said, reflecting on her journey and the fulfillment of her dream to complete her degree. Her story is an inspiring example of perseverance and dedication to lifelong learning.
