A great story from Howard University's Commencement

[Digital Puppy]

Even though I'm not a Howard U grad, I'm very proud of this young lady and her family...

From Atlanta Black Star:

During President Obama’s last commencement speech of his presidency, Obama singles out student Ciearra Jefferson in front of her Howard University graduating class Saturday.

In a Sunday interview with CNN‘s Fredricka Whitfield, Jefferson talks about how she turned down a Harvard scholarship to attend Howard University. Jefferson tells Whitfield that she always wanted to go to Howard, pledge a sorority, and that her family encourages “Black excellence.” Jefferson was raised by a single mom and had always excelled in academics. Her hard work garnered her the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship that pays for her education up to her doctorate’s program. Now, the Southfield, Michigan native wants to be like Thurgood Marshall, helping her community back home.

She tells Whitfield that success for her is when her mother can rest. Now, she is entering a graduate program at Emory University in Atlanta.

[monmouth4]

1. I have goosebumps. How wonderful and proud her family must be..n/t

[Digital Puppy]

2. Indeed!!

When her mom said she fell out of her chair and blacked out, I was thinking, "yup! that would have been my reaction if it were my kid, too!!"

Very proud of her and really happy that she could articulate why she chose an HBCU over a different institution!

[JI7]

3. saw this on tv. she had no idea he would bring her up

What a great moment for her and her mother.

[mcar]

4. What a wonderful young woman!

I have high hopes for this generation.

[Starry Messenger]

5. Well, now I'm crying!

What a great story! Amazing young lady!

[brer cat]

6. She is an inspiration to us all.

Her mother must be so proud of her!