Friday, May 21, 2010

Hazel Soares Soars



Bold and persistent, 94 year-old Hazel Soares got her degree in art history from Mills College this past week.

Mills itself is pretty bold. From the website: "Over the decades, Mills “firsts” have been numerous: the first women's college west of the Rockies (chartered 1885); the first laboratory school west of the Mississippi for aspiring teachers (1926); the first women’s college to offer a computer science major (1974) and a 4+1 MBA degree (2001); the first business school in the West for women (2005); and the first MFA program in book art and creative writing in the nation (2009).

Always a leader in the arts, Mills was among the first liberal arts colleges to offer a modern dance degree (1941), and it became the national center for modern dance outside New York City. The Center for Contemporary Music, dedicated in 1967, is a preeminent center for electronic music."


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7 comments:

Mamie said...

This past weekend I was with my 88-yr old dad as he tackled recovery from breaking his hip. I mentioned to him that Hazel Soares had gotten a college degree and that she was WAY older than he is! It brought a smile to his face, something that had been rare over the past few days. Hazel Soares is a woman who knows how to live until she dies.

Debra said...

At the young age of 47, I still have so much left to accomplish! When I hear stories like this one, it makes me believe that so much is possible!

Thanks, Peggy!

Mamie, I do hope that your father recovers well!

Peggy Payne said...

Her story seems to encourage 88 year-olds and 47 year-olds, and quite a few others. I like her matter-of-factness, her slow and steady get-the-job done attitude.

I too send healing vibes to your dad, Mamie.

Debra said...

Peggy, did you ever end up picking up the book The Help? I am 277 pages into it, and as distressing as the subject is, I am now wanting to see it through. There have been so many moments that you have flashed through my mind while I have been reading this book. I remember our talks about the wonderful black woman who helped to raise you. So much of this story is about that.

I'm just wondering what you might think about the book.

Peggy Payne said...

I haven't yet, Debbie. I guess I'm dreading the sad parts. Not bold of me, I know.

Debra said...

I definitely understand. I will let you know, when I finish it, if it is a "safe" read or not. It might feel too close to home for you, but sometimes, reading someone else's story towards positive change can be very healing.

Hugs,
Debbie

Peggy Payne said...

Thanks, Debbie. And you're right.