AT 84, STCC ALUMNUS ISHMAEL ALI REFLECTS ON COLLEGE’S IMPACT ON HIS LIFE
As a young man, Ishmael Ali never thought he would attend college but he always carried a love for learning in his heart.
When he was in his late 30s, Ali used to go to the Springfield City Library to discover books. He enjoyed finding out about people from far-away places like Africa. A librarian noticed Ali’s hunger for knowledge and encouraged him to apply to Springfield Technical Community College.
Heeding the librarian’s advice, Ali enrolled at STCC where he wanted to learn more about communications. It was 1975, and he also started volunteering at the college radio station, WTCC, 90.7 FM. Two years later, he earned an associate degree in liberal arts/general studies.
Today, nearly 50 years later, Ali holds an honorary doctorate in communications. He feels a strong bond with STCC.
“I have never forgotten the learning and teaching I received from STCC,” said Ali, who is 84. He is married to Medina Ali, who he met at STCC. She is the principal of Frank H. Freedman Elementary School.
Ali, who is Black, grew up poor in the South and says he understands the struggles faced by students from lower income backgrounds. STCC, the most affordable college in Springfield, maintains an open admissions policy which reduces barriers to higher education.
“Without a college like STCC, many of us would never be able to go to school to get a formal education,” Ali said. “I was fortunate to come here years ago, and it helped carve my life.”
Ali said he not only appreciated the classroom experience, but also the cultural events which are open to the community. STCC hosts a variety of diverse speakers, including authors, scholars and artists.
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