Kicker: Life-long learner graduates

MYRNA BROWN, HOST: You’re never too old to learn! Just ask 90-year-old Minnie Payne. Audio from NewsNation:

PAYNE: When I retired at 68, I wasn’t doing anything constructive.

At that time, the Texas grandma hadn’t stepped inside a classroom since graduating high school in 1950. No matter. She enrolled at the University of North Texas and earned an undergraduate degree at age 73.

PAYNE: I worked for about 16 years, writing and copyediting.

And during that time, she decided to pursue her master's degree in interdisciplinary studies.

PAYNE: [Applause]

And that’s the standing ovation she got last weekend when she walked across the stage, accompanied by her grandson, and became the oldest graduate to complete her coursework and earn her degree. She says when you find something you like…

PAYNE: Study it, practice it, go with it and perform to perfection.

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