Richard Prescott

"Sixty years after graduating from high school, I am finally tying what I once called my 'untied shoe.' On Friday, May 15, at age 78, I will graduate from Northeastern Illinois University—something I never imagined when I left college as a 20-year-old whose academic performance did not meet expectations. Life moved quickly after that. I built a successful career in the food industry, raised a family with my wife of nearly 55 years—the prettiest girl in the room, then and now—and eventually became the president of a foodservice sales and marketing company employing more than 30 people. But even through the successes, I always knew there was unfinished business when it came to my education. When my grandchildren began preparing for college, I decided it was time to lead by example. 

NEIU gave me the opportunity to complete what I started. The University’s Nontraditional Degree Program recognized the value of life experience, prior coursework, and the realities of adult learners balancing responsibilities and ambitions. Returning to school in my 70s was both rewarding and humbling. Most of my classmates were much younger than me, but being part of NEIU’s diverse student community opened my eyes to new perspectives, cultures, and experiences. I also had to adapt to an entirely different world of education—one shaped by remote learning, technology, and digital classrooms. There were certainly moments when I questioned whether I had made the right decision, especially during late nights worrying about assignments and papers. But I reminded myself that perseverance mattered, not only for me, but for my children and grandchildren watching my journey. 

My professional life taught me the value of resilience, leadership, and lifelong learning. Over a 40-year career in the food industry, I helped modernize operations, led sales organizations, negotiated mergers, and built businesses from the ground up. After retirement, I continued serving others through work with the Global Foodbanking Network and the Greater Chicago Food Depository, helping underserved communities access food resources throughout Mexico, Central America, Canada, and Chicago. Those experiences reinforced my belief that education and service should never stop. I also had the opportunity to participate in NEIU’s strategic planning process because I believe giving back is one of the most meaningful things we can do with our experience and knowledge. 

What NEIU has given me is far more than a diploma. The University gave me the opportunity to finish something deeply personal and meaningful. It gave me confidence, community, and the chance to prove that learning truly is lifelong. My message to anyone who believes it may be “too late” to pursue their education is simple: it is never too late. Every class, every challenge, and every accomplishment builds confidence and purpose. On May 15, 2026, I will walk across the stage not just for myself, but for my family, my grandchildren, and everyone who needs to know that dreams deferred can still be achieved."