95-year-old now the world's oldest college grad

HAYS, Kan. -- At the age of 95, Nola Ochs is now the world's oldest college graduate. But her studying days might not be over just yet -- she's considering a master's degree.

"I wouldn't be surprised if I started it," Ochs said.

Ochs received her bachelor's degree in general studies and history during Saturday's graduation ceremony at Fort Hays State University.

When she was handed her degree by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, the crowd gave her a standing ovation, breaking a rule against applauding until the names of all 2,176 graduates had been read -- including her granddaughter, Alexandra Ochs.

Relatives from as far away as California wore "Nola's #1 Fans" T-shirts, cheered and waved American flags as she walked across the stage.

"I was just another student," Ochs said at a news conference after the graduation.

However, none of the other graduates will be entered in the Guinness World Records as the world's oldest college graduate. The former record holder was Mozelle Richardson, who earned a degree from the University of Oklahoma in 2004 at the age of 90.

Ochs is the matriarch of a family that includes three sons -- a fourth died in 1995 -- along with 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

She started taking classes occasionally at Dodge City Community College after the 1972 death of her husband of 39 years, Vernon. After moving to Fort Hays last fall from her farm southwest of Jetmore, she completed the final 30 hours required for her degree.

Kansas Board of Regents member Dan Lykins addressed the graduates and praised Ochs' accomplishments.

"Follow the footsteps of people like Nola ... never give up," Lykins said.