100-years-young Isabel Mallon receives Honorary Diploma from HWDSB
On Isabel Mallon’s 100th birthday celebration, members of Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) attended her family home in Freelton, Ontario to fulfill a lifelong dream.
With more than 64 years after leaving high school, six-weeks shy of Hamilton Central High School’s commencement, Isabel now joins the Class of 2022 to receive an Honorary Diploma from HWDSB.
A mother of 7, with all children graduating from university, has valued education her entire life. As her daughter Marion Letts described in front the family and friends, however, without a high school diploma there has been a sadness in her mother’s life.
Isabel completed two years of academic high school at Delta and was near the top of her class. Isabel took a job with Bell Canada before she was able to complete high school. She accepted the job at her father’s advice. He felt that Isabel should learn skills that would allow to get a job quickly.
Theresa Sgambato, Principal of Waterdown District High School, was excited to present Isabel with the Honorary Diploma on Saturday, May 21. An invitation to have Isabel attend the WDHS commencement on June 27 was offered, but understandably Isabel’s health supported a celebration at her daughter’s home where she also resides.
“We present this Honorary Diploma to Isabel Jesse Mallon in recognition for her life experience, dedication to education, and service to the community,” said Sgambato.
Penny Deathe, Trustee for Flamborough was also at the family home to bring greeting on behalf of the Board.
“What a wonderful experience for her,” said Deathe. “It’s truly inspiring to know that a family is considering education to be the focus of Isabel’s birthday celebration milestone.”
On behalf of everyone at HWDSB, congratulations Isabel for all that you have accomplished!
The Director of Education, John Bryant, will recognize Ms. Mallon in his comments at the Board meeting on May 30.
Updated on Wednesday, July 27, 2022.