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95-year-old woman graduates from Howard College with her GED

Margie Ward has owned a business in Big Spring for 70+ years, but she never went to high school. In 2022, she decided she was going to strive for higher education.

BIG SPRING, Texas — Two years ago, Margie Ward had a dream to earn her GED. 

"We were like you've done it, and she was like, and it's been a long, hard road and it has but that determination in her every day, she did what that you know, you're never too old to dream," said Parkplace Retirement Living Business Developer Mitzi Knight. 

In 2022, 93-year-old Margie decided she wanted to go to school, and an outpouring of support came from her Big Spring community.  

"She was in the business world for most of her life," said Howard College President Cheryl Sparks. "Her husband taught her how to read and then some math. But again, she was handling that business all those years. She always wanted to get that GED. So, because of ParkPlace and everybody teaming together, she started coming to Howard College."

Margie would wake up bright and early for school every day to learn as much as she could. Unfortunately, due to health reasons, she wasn’t able to complete the entire program, but that didn't stop her from getting the recognition that she deserved. 

"It was one of those things that it was like we're going to celebrate," President Sparks said. "Because, as far as we're concerned, she did, you know? And so, this was a big day."

Ms. Ward is the definition of determination; she never lets anything stop her from reaching her goals and that inspiration has run through her family for generations. 

"She's always pushed me to chase my dreams," said Margie's great-granddaughter, Stevi Ward. "I mean, even today, she was like, 'Hey, your turn to go back to school'. So, she's just constantly pushing us and my family to do good and be better and just be the best, your best self and she's exemplifying it today. Just the fact that she's always wanted to do this and who at 93 is like, I'm going to get my GED."

Magie’s great-granddaughter Stevi was happy to have a new topic when she came to visit her great granny.

"Just like talking to her on the phone about, like I said, it's just great to hear about her day instead of just sitting here and reading the book or something," Stevi said. "She went to school and talked and learned."

As for the woman herself, her favorite part was the village that got to celebrate her. 

"Real fun," Margie said. "This was all my family."

Margie Ward is a prime example of how anyone can accomplish anything they put their mind to. 

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