Terry Brown

Terry Brown’s route to Tulsa Community College was unconventional. After growing up and living in New Orleans, she became a Tulsa transplant in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. But even after coming to Tulsa, it wasn’t likely that Terry would become the first of her seven siblings to earn a college degree.

Once her own children were through school, though, Terry decided it was time to get a degree for herself.

“It’s personal attainment. I already have a job and love my job,” she told the Tulsa World. “My kids were out of the way, and my grandkids are grown. It was time to do something for myself. Education was something I could do. I always wanted to say ‘I’m a college graduate.’ ”

Terry worked with TCC President and CEO Leigh B. Goodson at the OSU Center for Health Sciences, and that connection earned her special recognition from Goodson at Commencement on May 5 when she received an associate degree in Human Services.

“I always knew I wanted to do this. I knew I was smart enough to finish college, but there were obstacles in the way,” Terry said. “I say, if it’s a dream, go for it. You are never too old to learn.”