[Note: Portions of this article are taken from a UNG Newsroom article that originally appeared on May 6, 2024 — https://ung.edu/news/articles/2024/05/1,710-graduates-honored-at-spring-commencement.php]

Neva Garrett, PS ’24 had the honor of being one of the two student speakers at this past May’s UNG commencement ceremony. Following in the pathway forged by Class of 2023 Political Science major Carlee Blankenship last December, Neva is the second member of the #PSIAFamily in as many ceremonies to be so honored.

Neva brought a unique perspective to the College of Arts and Letters students present. “I never thought I would see this day that I would graduate college at age 60. It is never too late to get that degree if you want it,” she told the audience. “In fact, it’s easier than ever.”

Shortly after starting her time as a UNG student in 1982, Garrett married her high school sweetheart and took time away from her education to raise seven children. All seven are college graduates, including two who preceded Neva at UNG!

A heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS to Neva on her selection as a commencement speaker, and especially on achieving the education goal she set for herself some four decades ago.

Note: You can view the entirety of Neva’s remarks May 3, 2024, 10AM remarks to the graduates of UNG’s College of Arts and Letters at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AI8vptq8f9g [min 15:08 – 21:30].