Wentworth Institute Of Technology Presents 100-Year-Old Man With Degree
BOSTON (CBS) – Following their Saturday commencement ceremonies, Wentworth Institute of Technology graduates headed into the world with limited life experience – with at least one glaring exception.
Willard Merrill received an honorary degree from the college – 78 years after he last attended the school.
Merrill, who is 100 years old, was not at the ceremony on Saturday. But his son, John, accepted the honorary bachelor of technology degree on his behalf.
"It caps off the story of my life; I'm quite honored," Willard told school officials.
Born in New Hampshire, Willard earned his associate's degree in machine construction and tool design from Wentworth in 1937.
After graduation, he went into business with top engineers, the school said.
John Merrill also earned his degree from Wentworth, graduating in 1965 and receiving an honorary bachelor of technology degree on Saturday as a part of his 50th reunion festivities.
Willard is a mere 11 years younger than Wentworth Institute of Technology. The college was founded 111 years ago.
"We honor their extraordinary lives, and their innovative spirit, which has been and forever will be a hallmark of the Wentworth experience," said Wentworth president Zorica Pantic about John and Willard Merrill.
In total, 299 degrees were given out to students at Saturday's commencement ceremony.
