April 25, 2024

Iowa mom graduates nearly 35 years after starting degree

DUBUQUE — Nearly 35 years after she started, one Iowa mom is receiving her college degree from Loras College this weekend.

Karen Leisen said she always focused on her goal of finishing college as she was raising her nine children.

Leisen mostly took one class per semester and finished her school work at the dining room table after her kids were asleep.

College officials say the 76-year-old Leisen is likely the oldest graduate in the school’s history.

Leisen says she got to meet some real nice young students along the way as she took classes.