Johnstown, PA (WJAC) — Duquesne University honored more than 430 members of its Class of 2021 Friday at its winter commencement ceremony.
For one of those graduates, Johnstown resident Dr. Tom Fleming, commencement meant more than just receiving a degree.
In 2002, Dr. Fleming completed his coursework at Duquesne's School of Education but never finished his dissertation.
Years later, Dr. Fleming's son Ryan enrolled at the university.
Sadly, Ryan passed away from a rare heart condition in 2014 during his sophomore year.
Dr. Fleming, who is the former superintendent of Richland School District and a former principal at Bishop McCort, chose to return to Duquesne to finish his doctoral program and honor his late son.
At Friday's commencement, Dr. Fleming finally received his degree in Ryan's memory.
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