Watch CBS News

94-year-old man finishes college 76 years after first enrolling

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- A 94-year-old man will be one of the oldest graduates in the West Virginia University history when he receives his diploma Sunday.

The school says in a press release that Anthony Brutto, who studied on and off for 75 years, will be awarded his Regents Bachelor of Arts degree during commencement.

Brutto first entered the university in 1939 when tuition was $50. He was drafted in 1942, serving in the Army Air Corps until the end of World War II.

Brutto re-enrolled at the school in 1946, but could not finish because he had to care for his sick wife.

"It was always important to me to graduate," Brutto said.

A machinist by trade, Brutto jokingly says he'll take a break before pursuing a master's degree.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.