NCCU celebrates winter graduation ceremony

For some in the crowd at North Carolina Central University's graduation Saturday, it very easily could not have happened.

Patricia Whitfield is a new graduate at NC Central, but she first enrolled decades ago.

“I actually came in 1979," Whitfield said.

In her senior year, so close to a diploma, she left school to take care of her parents who were suffering from health issues.

Later she had her own health struggles that required a kidney and pancreas transplant, but the dream of getting her diploma never went away.

“It feels great," Whitfield said. "This is a journey I had prayed for and hoped for.”

Finally, her prayers were answered; Under a special program, she returned to NC Central to complete her behavioral and social science degree.

“I think this will greatly help to counsel and talk to people,” she said.

Another incredible story in the crowd is Tyler Fisher's.

“I experienced homelessness and going through poverty," Fisher said. "It was really a tough time.”

But growing up, when he had nothing, he leaned on the things that cost nothing.

“Love, compassion, ambition," Fisher said. "Those things are free.”

He used them to turn things around for his family. Now, he is a first-generation college graduate.

“They could not be more proud of me," he said. "They were just screaming my name. Those humble beginnings even make this moment feel even more surreal."

Fisher is also the author of a few books, inspired by his upbringing. He wants to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

As for Whitfield, she is still not done learning and hopes to go on to divinity school.