Mother and son graduate from the same university on the same day, sets record

They started taking classes in 2020 and had to support each other till their graduation in December 2022. “I said, ‘Ma, you’ve got to keep it going. I know you want to stop. We got to keep going,” Immanuel Patton said. 

“The main thing was just trying to get everything lined up and stay on top of her as well stay on top of myself,” Immanuel added.

Both mom and son said they are “very proud” of each other’s achievements. “I’m very proud of him that he has crossed off all the [items on his] checklist from birth till 23 years old. I’m so happy that we went that route because right now, look at us, we both have our bachelor’s degrees.” Carolyn Patton said.

Carolyn Patton received her bachelor of arts degree in humanities and Immanuel Patton received his bachelor of science degree in public safety administration.

The University of Maryland Global Campus President Gregory Fowler described the Patton’s achievements as exemplary. “We are inspired by Immanuel’s commitment to support his mother — and for him to make that pledge at such a young age is truly remarkable. That we have helped him fulfill his childhood promise to Carolyn makes us all extremely proud,” Fowler said.