After high school, Patricia chose a different path from what many expected. Instead of heading straight to college, she devoted herself to building a family and a stable career. Though she always knew she wasn’t done with school, life moved on. She poured her energy into raising her son and supporting her husband—both of whom would later graduate from Morehouse College—while her own academic aspirations quietly lingered in the background.

Everything changed about eight years ago when her son jokingly teased her about spending too much time watching soap operas and suggested she go back to school. Taking his advice to heart, Patricia enrolled at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, later transferring to Clayton State University, taking one or two classes each semester.

“I just kept trudging along—semester after semester—doing the work,” she said.

Her journey, however, was far from easy. Last year, doctors discovered a massive 10-pound tumor on her kidney. Even after undergoing surgery, Patricia refused to give up, determined to finish what she had started.

Over the years, she became a beloved figure on campus. Clayton State University President, Dr. Georj Lewis, described her as a light in every room she entered. “When she walks across the graduation stage, the entire crowd will rise—because she’s touched so many hearts,” he said.

For Patricia, returning to school in her seventies was even more rewarding than she imagined. She found lasting friendships, renewed purpose, and a deep love for learning.

“These experiences I should have had at 19 or 20 years old are just as amazing at 79,” she said. “I’ve had the best time.”

Though she has graduated, Patricia isn’t closing the book on her education. She’s considering pursuing a master’s degree and hopes to use her knowledge to educate others about their rights and the justice system.

“I feel like the Lord is blessing me with the best years of my life,” Patricia said with gratitude.

AFRICA | At 79 years old, Patricia Sias Ellis has finally achieved a lifelong dream—earning her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Clayton State University in the United States, six decades after putting her education on hold.