Student and grandma mark 'dual celebration' at university
Sandra Freeman, 80, has worked as a cleaner for 50 years at Loughborough University, where granddaughter Molly Jackson studied
- Published
A university cleaner and her granddaughter have marked two big achievements on the same special day.
Sandra Freeman was awarded a Loughborough University medal for 50 years of service as a cleaner on Thursday as her granddaughter Molly Jackson graduated from her textiles degree.
At 80-year-old, Ms Freeman received the medal for her long-running contribution and she was also part of the inspiration for her granddaughter's final project.
She said it was day her family "will remember always".
'Very special moment'
Ms Freeman said she had no intention of retiring after years working across the university's various buildings.
She rarely slowed down unless she was stopping to have a chat with "someone who looks like they need a friendly ear", the university said.
Her manager Sarah Roberts, who nominated Ms Freeman for the medal, said she was "always there to offer support and guidance to colleagues".
Ms Freeman said: "I am honoured to receive such recognition and be awarded the University Medal, but also extremely proud of my granddaughter Molly who is receiving her degree.
"For both to be happening on the same day is a very special moment in our lives, and one that we as a family will remember always."
The special day was celebrated with university staff and members of Mrs Freeman's family
Ms Jackson, 24, who hoped to embark on a career in textiles, said her grandmother had rarely taken a day off work, adding her "remarkable outlook on life and extraordinary work ethic are truly inspiring".
The graduate dedicated her final-year university project to her grandparents, who used used to work at The Shepshed Lace, a company famous for manufacturing lace and elastic.
She called her grandparents the "centre" of her family, and said her project was her way of celebrating their lives.
"This dual celebration of my academic achievement and my grandmother's exceptional contribution to the university makes this graduation particularly special for our family.
"It is a moment that encapsulates our shared values and the legacy of dedication and service that my grandparents have exemplified."
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