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Wilmington University’s Georgetown Commencement Marks Success, Triumph and a New Start
Each step across the stage was a symbol of accomplishment for Christina Vickers. It took 28 years, but this paramedic, firefighter, author and mother finally graduated with her B.S. in Allied Health Education and Management last Wednesday, May 22, at Wilmington University’s Georgetown commencement.
Christina underscores Wilmington University’s winning combination of academic excellence, personal and professional improvement and consistent support and encouragement. A native of Chestertown, Maryland, Christina graduated from Kent County High School in 1985 and started her career with the Town of Ocean City in 2000, first as a part-time employee with the Fire/EMS division then a full-time Firefighter/Paramedic.
Amid family and work challenges, Christina stopped and started her degree four times. In 2011, Christina published her first book, "A Mom's Wish: Finding the Path through the Autism Maze," which made its way to the New York Times Best Seller List and highlights her family's journey through the confounding, heart-wrenching world of autism.
She was recognized as Fire Department Paramedic of the Year 2012 by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, Maryland.
And, in 2013, Christine accomplished what she had long awaited in Georgetown on a perfect spring evening with her family by her side. After the commencement ceremony, she kissed her husband and said, "See? I told you I'd finish it."
Her father, who is in his seventies, was also there to watch his daughter accept her diploma.
“I’m so glad he lived to see it,” Christina said, wiping away tears of joy before embracing her father in a tight hug.
During his address at the ceremony, University President Dr. Jack Varsalona commended the graduates on their hard work and dedication.
“You are men and women who have demonstrated great courage, intelligence and perseverance to reach your dream, and you know the value of downright hard work,” said Dr. Varsalona.
Georgetown student speaker Michelle Lecates reminded her fellow graduates that while each of them they may set off on different paths, they “will forever be linked by a common thread – our experience at Wilmington University.
“Hold your heads high and know that you have accomplished so much,” Lecates continued. “And even greater things await us.”
About Wilmington University
Wilmington University is a private, nonprofit university committed to providing flexible, career-oriented traditional and online undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs and offering small class sizes, individualized attention and affordable tuition. For more information, contact Wilmington University at 302-356-INFO (4636), via email at infocenter@wilmu.edu or visit our web site at www.wilmu.edu.
