Merrell University celebrates two graduates

Merrell University staff and students celebrated the graduation of Haley Graupman and Regina O’Kee Thursday, September 9.

Marcie Olivas, director of education, presented the students with their diplomas in cosmetology. Haley also earned an acrylic nail certification.

“This type of work is about 80 percent people skills,” said Christopher Elliott, school administrator. “You both have those qualities. We have helped you with your education but this is just the beginning. You will attend workshops and conferences and continually educate yourselves. It’s hard out there, but you’ll be successful.”

Jane Drew, administrative assistant, read an essay entitled “Ten Rules for Being Human” This list of rules reminded students that there are always lessons to be learned and growth comes from working through these lessons. Rule 9 states, “Your answers lie within you. The answers to life’s questions lie within you. All you need to do is look, listen and trust.”

Regina O’Kee knows about Rule 9. The oldest Merrell student at 50, she told the group she had been laid off her job. But the mother of three from Triplett told those gathered that she took that potentially bad situation and used it as an opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream of working in cosmetology. She sang the gospel hymn, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and said afterwards, “We’re all God’s sparrows. If I can start over at the age of 50, so can you.”

Haley’s son Denton, 3, was there to see her receive her diploma and certification. A graduate of Paris High School, she initially went into nursing but decided to follow her dream.

“Cosmetology has always been something I was interested in,” she said.

The graduates and their guests were treated to a barbecue buffet following the ceremony.