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Well, I finally made. I graduated from Gadsden State Community College on May 10, 2002. I was unable to attend Graduation. Dr. Jim Jolly (Dean of Instructors) brought me a cake and some ice cream. He along with two of my instructors gave me a graduation party. My sister, Diane Brown also attended the party. I have never had a Dean to buy me a cake and gave me a party. I am very thankful to know we have instructors like these to teach our kids. We need more like them. Here what they wrote about my graduation.
Over 600 students graduated from Gadsden State Community College this Spring, each one special in many ways. One of the most unique graduates this year is truly an inspiration. George B. Thornton, received the first degree bearing President Renee Culverhouse's signature.
He was unable to attend the traditional graduation ceremony at GSCC due to his illness.
Amazing, courageous, motivational, these are only a few of the adjectives Gadsden State instructors used to describe George Thornton. Thornton began classes in Computer Science Technology with the instructors going to his home , taking his assignments to him, or sending them to him via email. One of his instructors noted his eagerness to begin assignments as soon as he registered for a class. It was common for him to be several chapters or a month ahead of the classroom students with his work.
Thornton, a Gadsden native born in 1944, has remarkably overcome the handicap of Cerebral Palsy his entire life. "Although I can no longer depend on my hands to write, I can type on my computer and get the job done. It just goes to show that God will always provide a way as long as we depend on Him."
Thornton has to hold his right hand with his left to make his keystrokes, typing about three words per minute. He is unable to insert a floppy, CD, or click a mouse, so he must use the keys for everything. Even though his movements are a challenge for him, his mind is exceptional.
He developed his own website and has been developing sites for others. He is also able to create customized screensavers. His web address is http://george_thornton.tripod.com/index-2.html. The GSCC instructors responsible for assisting and instructing Thornton did not wish to be recognized. However they were so proud of the progress he made, these instructors paid for his diploma, graduation fees , and a small graduation party with refreshments to celebrate the accomplishment. Dr. Jim Jolly, Dean of Instructional Services, presented Thornton with his diploma. Thornton, who also holds an A.S. degree in Management and Supervision from GSCC which he received in 1969, said, "I have never let my handicap slow me down." He retired in 1983 on disability after 13 years of service with the City of Gadsden Recreation Department as a Recreation Leader. The recent degree he earned from Gadsden State is an A.S. Degree in Computer Science Technology. He is definitely a role model of courage and persistence in the pursuit of a dream.
bravenet.com