University Holds Graduation for One, Grants Dying Father’s Wish

Longwood University may rate as one of the best colleges in the South, but that doesn’t mean the faculty thinks itself too fancy to extend a little Southern hospitality to a family in need.

The 175 year-old college heard that the father of one of their students was dying of lung cancer, and doctors feared he wouldn’t be able to fulfill his final wish — to experience his daughter’s graduation. But Brittany Inge received a call from the provost of the school with an offer that gave the family a special day to remember forever.

In an email, Vice President for Academic Affairs Ken Perkins wrote: “I understand your dad is not well at all. A little bird, so to speak, suggested that I consider a small, private ceremony in your home, very soon so that we can award you a symbolic diploma. I am more than willing to come to your dad’s home, and bring with me the dean and registrar, dressed in our regalia and present this to you in front of your family.”

Monday morning the family gathered in a stately room on the Farmville, Virginia campus and watched Brittany receive her diploma from Longwood University President W. Taylor Reveley IV. The graduate who majored in elementary and middle school education wants to work as a teacher.

“I had no idea Longwood would go out of their way,” Bob told WRIC the Richmond television station. “It takes special people and special organizations to make this happen.”

Source: WRIC-TV