For most of us, finding our high school diploma might prove challenging. As the years pass, we may take it for granted that “It’s around here someplace” and go about our day.
For Otterbein Green Hills resident Susan Bender, there was no missing what she never received. Even after 58 years.
Bender, a fixture at the Bellefontaine Friendly Senior Center, arrived in a white cap and gown for a celebration of her accomplishment Wednesday morning. This time, she went home with her diploma.
Bender’s story started at St. Rita’s School for the Deaf in 1968. She attended the school and diligently completed her studies. But for reasons unknown, she never received her diploma. Instead, she received a Certificate of Attendance from the school.
Enter Mary Jo Altstaetter.
Altstaetter said the ladies met at church several years ago. After the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, Altstaetter encouraged Bender to come to the Senior Center. Over time, the ladies became very good friends, but Altstaetter noticed that when Bender spoke of her childhood, she revealed she had attended St. Rita’s but never graduated.
After some checking, Altstaetter called St. Rita’s and confirmed that Bender had, in fact, attended the school and that she had completed the requirements to receive her diploma:
The Reverend Shawn Landenwitch, Pastor at St. Patrick’s in Bellefontaine, presented Bender with her diploma in front of family and dozens of friends.
Through interpreter Carolyne Clerico, Bender said she is flattered by the outpouring of support from so many people. and was surprised that it happened:
