54-Year-Old Blind Woman Earns Master’s Degree with Distinction at U.S. University, Defies All Odds
LaShawn Benita Harley-Hill, a 54-year-old woman from the United States, has defied the odds by earning a Master’s degree in Counseling with distinction from Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS), despite going completely blind in 2017 due to complications from diabetes. Her remarkable academic journey, which concluded with a 3.90 GPA, was met with a standing ovation as she crossed the graduation stage, guided by one of her advocates.
Benita lost her sight on January 17, 2017, a day after celebrating Founder’s Day with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., which she was actively involved in during her undergraduate years at Morgan State University. The sudden blindness left her feeling helpless and dependent.
“I thought, ‘God, I can’t do this.’ I felt like a burden because I had to depend on people,” she recalled
With unwavering support from her husband, Columbus, and resources from the Louisiana Association of the Blind, Benita began to rebuild her life using assistive tools like a smart cane, screen-reading technology, and specialized training.
In 2022, an employment specialist encouraged her to return to school, and a grant from Louisiana Rehabilitation Services helped make that dream financially viable.
Determined to succeed, Benita used audio recordings, screen readers, and community support to keep up with her coursework. Professors adapted assignments into accessible formats, while classmates and church members offered encouragement during tough times.
“There were times when I wanted to throw in the towel. But I didn’t give up,” she said. Graduating in 2025 with a Master’s in Counseling (Rehabilitation track), Benita now works as a counselor, supporting people with disabilities and addiction challenges.
“A disability doesn’t stop you from doing things — it might just slow you down a little. We can do just as much as anybody else; it might just take longer,” she said.
Looking back, Benita hopes her story encourages others never to give up, no matter the obstacles.
“I hope I can be an inspiration and an example of not giving up. Anything is possible through faith, and you can do anything if you set your mind to it.”
