Graduate Spotlight Roberta Duke

Crossing the stage to receive an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Business Management and Technology from St. Philip’s College takes on an entirely different meaning for 64-year-old Roberta Duke.

At the age of 16, she dropped out of high school. “I feel like I missed out on everything. I missed out on graduation. I missed out on prom,” she said “That’s why my ultimate desire has been to walk the stage for the first time in a cap and gown. God has given me a second chance.”

The New Jersey native made her way to San Antonio with the clothes on her back and her heart full of determination. “I had nowhere to live, no car, and some money I had taken out of my pension, but I knew I had to change my life and I knew I had to get out there and do something for me,” she said.

Despite the initial doubts she had about attending college at her age, Roberta excelled in her studies. At the end of her first semester, she received A’s and B’s and thought, “Maybe, I can do this.” After receiving honors recognition for her grade point average, her thoughts changed to, “I know I can do this.”

Armed with knowledge, experience, and the confidence she has gained at St. Philip's College, Roberta is ready to take on the next chapter of her life with a sense of purpose. After graduation, she plans on pursuing her bachelor’s degree.

Congratulations Roberta!

Roberta will give the benediction during Commencement. For more information on the Fall 2023 Commencement Ceremony, click here.

Fall 2023 Commencement
Friday, December 15, 2023
Freeman Coliseum
7:00 p.m.