Celebrating Adult Learners During National Student Leadership Week

When you think of most 75-year-olds, what may come to mind is the image of someone wrapping up their career and winding down. But that’s not the case for Harriet Carter-Brown, who’s just getting started. At 75, she will graduate from GEC this July. Her return to school was motivated by a long-held dream and a little nudging from one of her children.

“Things kept happening that delayed my education,” she shares. “But my daughter inspired me to finally go back.”

Returning to the classroom has not only fulfilled a personal goal but also shaped her as a leader. “People look up to me, I know I can be a role model to others, and this is part of leadership,” she says.

Sharrena Munford, a 44-year-old supermom of nine, will also graduate in July. Her leadership journey began with a desire to inspire others.

“I will not only be impacting my family and myself but all future students who will one day walk into the [GEC] office and see our class photos on the wall and say ‘I can do that too’ or ‘Soon that will be me’,” she explains.

Munford is a Student Ambassador and GEC Student Board Member. These roles have allowed her to collaborate across the school and community, building skills, and confidence.

Graduating last January, Dawn Bowen is a mother, grandmother, and lifelong leader. At 58, she embraced the opportunity to return to school not just for herself, but to be a positive influence on those around her.

“Being a leader comes naturally to me. I’ve always lived by the motto, ‘Each one teach one and pull one along,’” she says.

As one of the oldest students in her classes, sometimes older than her teachers, Bowen leads by example. “I set positive examples and led the way for others to follow. Leaders come in many sizes. If you can help one person, then you’ve succeeded.”

The stories of these students remind us that leadership can bloom at any stage of life. Whether you're 44, 58, or 75, there is power in returning to school, setting an example, and inspiring others along the way.

This National Student Leadership Week, let’s celebrate not just student leaders, but the adult learners who are redefining what it means to lead. They are proof that it’s never too late to learn, grow, and lead.