Empowering Women Who Empower Women
EIS stands for more than just ‘Extra Inning Softball’ – it stands for ‘Empower, Inspire, and Support’! On July 25, 2024, my grandmother, Helen Holland, achieved a milestone that will never be forgotten. Graduating from BYU Idaho just three months shy of her 102nd birthday, my grandmother exemplifies the timeless values of empowerment and perseverance.
In April 2022, my daughter, Olivia Cromer, also graduated from BYU Idaho, the same college as her great grandma, Helen Holland. Olivia currently works as a labor and delivery nurse in northern Idaho.
Two years after Olivia graduated from BYU Idaho, she attended her great grandma’s commencement ceremonies which were held in the same building where Olivia also graduated.
One year after my daughter, Olivia graduated from BYI Idaho, I graduated from Sam Houston State University (SHSU) with a master’s degree. Finishing my education at age 45 was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I cannot imagine going back to school in 55 years from now.
The Value of a Support System
Not only was grandma Holland one of my biggest cheerleaders, but so was my Aunt Josephine Holland (also a BYU graduate) parents, David and Carol Holland, siblings, four children, and numerous friends. Their collective support and belief in the power of knowledge have been instrumental in my journey.
Having a strong support system while attending school and playing sports is invaluable for young athletes. Family, friends, coaches, and mentors provide encouragement, guidance, and motivation, helping athletes manage the demands of both academics and athletics. This network offers emotional support during challenging times, celebrates achievements, and fosters a sense of community and belonging.
Our family has a long list of college graduates, including cousins, aunts, uncles, and parents, all of whom exemplify the value of education. Whether it’s attending college, enrolling in a trade school, or pursuing other educational paths, the pursuit of knowledge is invaluable.
In my family, there are countless other women who have also obtained their education. In some instances family members were much younger when they graduated. Not only did my daughter, Olivia, graduate before me at the age of 21, but my little sister, Holly Mason, who is 12 years younger than me, graduated an entire decade ahead of me. However, as we have learned from our grandma Holland, you are never too old to continue your education.
Breaking Tradition: Women in Our Family Follow Their Dreams
The women in our family might graduate a little out of order from the traditional sense, but the important part is that we follow our dreams, regardless of age. Whether it’s returning to school later in life or balancing academics with athletics, each achievement is a testament to our commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. This non-traditional path highlights the resilience and determination that define us, proving that it’s never too late to pursue our passions.
Grandma Holland’s graduation from BYU Idaho at nearly 102 years old is more than just a personal triumph; it is a celebration of the enduring power of education and the human spirit. Her story inspires us all to value education, aim high, believe in ourselves, and never give up. As we celebrate grandma’s remarkable achievement, let us also recommit to our own educational journeys, no matter where they may lead. After all, we are never too old to learn, and we are never too old to conquer our dreams. Thank you grandma for empowering me and countless others!
If you have an inspiring story you feel impressed to share about the women in your family who have influenced your pursuit of an education, please share by emailing us at: info@extrainningsoftball.com and provide the following:
- your name
- players team name
- player’s position
- players coach name
- location currently residing (city/state)
- tell us your educational story
- highlight women in your life who influenced your education
- include 4-5 photos
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