More than 30 years after earning her associate degree, Toni returned to the stage to celebrate the completion of her Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA). But this time, she wasn’t alone. Her daughter, Markayla Moore, also graduated with her degree in Health Science and minors in psychology, business and sports management.
For Toni, the moment was deeply personal.
“It’s a full-circle moment,” she said. “Not only am I graduating, but I’m graduating with my youngest child.”
Coming from a long line of educators, Toni always understood the value of education. Her mother played a pivotal role in encouraging her to keep going.
“She always said, ‘You pay for a car, eventually the car’s going to wear out. You pay for your education, it’ll be with you forever.’”
Although Toni’s mother has since passed, Toni carries that advice with her every day.
“My biggest regret is that she didn’t get to see me walk across the stage,” Toni said.
After earning her associate degree, Toni began working at the state department, expecting it to be a short stop along her journey. More than three decades later, she is now preparing to retire, this time with a new goal in mind: stepping into the classroom as a substitute teacher and continuing her family’s legacy in education.
The decision to return to school wasn’t without its challenges. From adapting to new technology to balancing a full-time job, family responsibilities and coursework, Toni faced a steep learning curve.
“Everything used to be paper and pencil,” she said. “Now everything is electronic and online.”
Through it all, she found support in her program, and even found herself back on campus, often utilizing services in Drinko Library.
But one of her greatest sources of motivation has been her children.
“All four of my kids have graduated from college,” she said. “Seeing them succeed gave me the push I needed to finish what I started.”
For her daughter Markayla, that inspiration goes both ways.
A student-athlete on the track and field team, where she competes as a thrower, Markayla has spent her college years balancing academics, athletics and her social life. Now a senior, she feels confident managing it all, but she’s still in awe of her mom.
“She worked full-time while earning her degree online, came to my track meets, and she has grandkids, too,” Markayla said. “I don’t know how she does it.”
Beyond their own family, Markayla sees her mom’s impact reaching even further.
“She’s inspiring people in her friend group and her age group, and she probably doesn’t even realize it.”
Their shared experience at Marshall has strengthened an already close bond. That connection was especially evident as graduation approached. At one point, Toni wasn’t sure she wanted to participate in the commencement ceremony, worried about taking away from her daughter’s moment. But Markayla wouldn’t let that happen.
“I told her, ‘Walk across that stage, girl!’” Markayla said.
With her daughter’s encouragement, and reflecting on how far they’ve both come, Toni made her decision. This weekend, they crossed the stage together.
For Toni, the moment represented more than earning a degree. It represented perseverance, growth and honoring the people who helped shape her journey. For Markayla, it was a chance to celebrate not only her own accomplishments, but her mother’s as well.
Together, their story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your goals. Sometimes, the most meaningful part of your journey is who is by your side.
