87-year-old Brooklyn man graduates from Medgar Evers College

Wednesday, June 8, 2016
87-year-old Brooklyn man graduates college
Shirleen Allicot has the story of an 87-year-old man celebrating his college graduation.

NEW YORK -- You're never too old to learn and one Brooklyn man is a great example.

He is a father of seven, grandfather to 11, great-grandfather of five, but the one thing he didn't have was a Bachelor's degree, until now.

When you ask Hubert Evans how old he is, you can't help but see the pride in his eyes.

"In October, I'll be 88," Evans said.

He has just become the oldest degree recipient in the CUNY system for 2016.

He earned a Bachelor's degree at Medgar Evers College.

"It didn't take me much for the associates, but when I started for the full Bachelors, then I had to really work hard," Evans said.

For 10 years, the native of Kingston, Jamaica, juggled a full-time job at Brooklyn College with his study.

Even his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were impressed.

"I didn't surprise them, but they really didn't know I was studying so hard," Evans said.

Tuesday as he was honored by the school, he gave all thank to his professors who kept him motivated.

"They always encourage you to keep on fighting, and don't be late for the class, and do your homework," Evans said.

As studious as he was, earning a B average, he admits some topics were tough.

"My hardest class was American history," Evans said.

It's not exactly a big part of the curriculum in Jamaica, but he made it to the finish line.

And for that, the president of Medgar Evers says he is an inspiration.

"This is a man who clearly understands the value of education and who by virtue of loving to learn turned his life into something that he has great passion and great pride in, and obviously is very joyous about," the president said.

So what's next for the scholar?

"I'm steadying my nerves first and then we'll find out," Evans said.

While he thinks about his next move, he's not slowing down and doesn't plan to stop learning.

"Always strive for the best to be truthful, work hard, that's the only way you can reach somewhere," Evans said.