In an inspiring display of perseverance, a single mother who is deaf delivered the commencement speech at her college graduation in Colorado, overcoming numerous obstacles on her journey to academia.
Colorado Public Radio’s Jenny Brundin shares the compelling story of Kaitlyn McCormick, a recent college graduate who conquered significant challenges to earn her degree. During her commencement speech, McCormick remarked, “I stand before you today not just as a graduate,” addressing a thousand of her peers while donning her cap and gown.
McCormick’s path to success was fraught with difficulties. “Honestly, there were days I was barely hanging on,” she admitted in her speech. As a full-time employee and single parent, she navigated a world that, as she described, “doesn’t always see or hear people like me.” Born with a genetic disorder causing deafness, McCormick relies on cochlear implants and occasionally a sign language interpreter.
Her academic journey wasn’t straightforward. “The truth is, this wasn’t my first attempt at college,” McCormick revealed. She initially enrolled in college without a clear direction, leading her to drop out multiple times due to a lack of financial resources and support.
While working at a call center, McCormick encountered a programming language that piqued her interest. A serendipitous thrift store visit led her to a used book on programming, igniting a passion that would eventually guide her back to education. Despite becoming a single mother, McCormick resolved to pursue a career in data engineering, enrolling in the fully online Colorado State University Global while balancing work and parenting responsibilities.
Her journey was not without emotional hurdles. Overwhelmed, McCormick leaned on her best friend, Kailyn, who inspired her through difficult times. Kailyn, who has a severe disease affecting her hearing, mobility, and speech, sent McCormick encouraging messages, reminding her, “Don’t give up the rest of your life. My time is limited here. But you have the gift to not give up.” These words motivated McCormick to persevere.
Her resolve paid off as McCormick stood before her peers to celebrate their collective achievement. “Congratulations, class of 2025. We did it,” she announced, marking her success with a bachelor’s degree in management information systems and business analytics.
“It’s a sense of fulfillment. It’s a sense of achievement,” McCormick reflected, capturing the triumph of her journey.
