Three generations in one family graduate at the same time

May 14, 2017

When LaWanda Flennoy set up a photoshoot to celebrate her daughters’ and granddaughter’s graduations this year, she hadn’t planned on being a part of it herself, though her children had other ideas.

Her two eldest daughters graduated from college this month, and her youngest just finished high school, while her granddaughter graduated from Kindergarten. To add joy on top of joy, Flennoy herself just graduated college as well.

The photos of the graduating family were taken by Darryl Hammond in Chicago and have all three generations of women together.

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“The photo makes me feel proud, for a couple of reasons,” Flennoy said. “First, that I have been a role model for these ladies and second, that they have set out and accomplished their goals. Graduating was not an easy task for any of us, as we’ve all had setbacks and feelings of uncertainty. But this year, we’ve conquered them all.”

Now it’s on to the next stages of their lives. Flennoy’s daughter Amari graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a degree in industrial engineering and has already accepted a position with Ford Motor Company. Her daughter Paris graduated from Chicago State University with a degree in public relations and has plans to work for Apple.

Flennoy posted one of the pictures on the Facebook page Because Of Them We Can, where it quickly got over 7,000 likes.

“I have always taught my girls that they can be whatever they want to be. A solid education and unwavering belief in themselves are great foundations for success,” Flennoy said. “I hope people realize that with determination, focus and a good support system, anyone can meet their potential.”