July 14, 2021

Do you know of many 80-something year-olds who go back to school?! We don’t! It is pretty unheard of these days, so imagine what a big deal it is when an 83 year old decides to work toward earning her high school diploma!

Rita Gogel is 87 years old.  On June 26th, she passed the last section of the TASC (math) to receive her HSE!!!! She first took the TASC in November 2017.  She has been attending class in her area (Dale) for FOUR YEARS – talk about determination!

Rita found out over a year ago that she has Parkinson’s, but she did not let that stop her.  She has worked through the challenges that come with Parkinson’s in addition to the pandemic, additional sickness, injuries and simple aches and pains. Sindy Harris, Rita’s teacher, made it known that Rita has inspired her GREATLY. Sindy admires Rita’s dedication and perseverance throughout the process of earning her HSE.

With 11 children, 37 grandchildren, 10 step grandchildren, and 50 great grandchildren, Rita stays busy! Her family is extremely supportive of her decision to come back to school, and they all plan to be at her graduation ceremony in Jasper this fall.

Rita, the Vincennes University Adult Basic Education Staff is SO proud of you!! Congratulations on this HUGE accomplishment!