High School Graduate Receives Diploma, 71 Years Later

 

Frances Sanders Tidwell grew up in Goshen and had one credit left to graduate when she was given an opportunity she says she couldn’t pass up. 

 

Frances’ principal reccommended she skip her senior year and go to Troy University. She went on to receive a degree in English and Social Studies and was a teacher for 36 years. 

 

Frances’ family coordinated the surprise for her to finally receive her diploma at an award ceremony in Goshen. Frances’ great niece Caylee was graduating and presented her with the diploma. 

 

Frances Sanders Tidwell said, “Well I am just grateful to all those people that made it possible for me to get it. Because, it is something I was very surprised to get, feel honored to have gotten, and I hope my family will settle down and quit being so proud.”

 

Frances set up a scholarship in 1999 at Troy University for a Pike County native pursuing a career in education. That’s just one way she feels she can pay it forward.