Paula Lekatz, UMD’s 70-year-old graduate from class of 2023

Paula Lekatz, is a multi-college graduate, she earned her first degree in 1980 from Morris, and continues her education. Recently she earned her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree majoring in American Indian studies.

However, Paula Lekatz had some advice for students thinking about furthering their education. “My dad said me learn something new every day. It’s the one thing that nobody can take away from me.” Paula Lekatz said. ” I would say keep learning if you want to. I’m really enjoying what I’m studying now because I get to study my own people. “

Although Paula Lekatz will be continuing her education in the Fall semester with her Master’s degree. “I don’t like the term professional student because I’ve gone to learn, then I’ve worked and then I’ve learned and then worked.” Lekatz said. “But I think the most significant thing is that I’m a Native American student. And so we were told that we we could not we were not college material. So I guess I’ve proved them wrong.”

For more information about the UMD graduation ceremony you can look here. For more stories with UMD you can look here.