A week before Christmas, Freddie Payne crossed the stage at Lander University to receive his master’s degree -- an achievement that reflected far more than academic success.
For Payne, 73, the walk marked the culmination of a lifelong commitment to learning, personal growth and the belief that education is valuable at any age.
Returning to the classroom was not about checking off a final goal but continuing a journey he began decades earlier. Throughout his life and career, he consistently sought opportunities to expand his knowledge and challenge himself intellectually. Earning a master’s degree later in life was a natural extension of that mindset.
Payne, a Greenwood native, graduated from Greenwood High School in 1970 and chose Lander for his college education. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology in 1974 and embarked on a successful career with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, where his expertise was sought in a wide range of fields – from environmental health programs to rabies control and restaurant inspections. He also worked with the environmental health division of the Upper Savannah Health District, now the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
Realizing that another degree would be beneficial to his career, Payne returned to Lander for a second degree. This time, it was for a bachelor’s degree in business, which he earned in 1985. “Learning doesn’t stop when you retire or reach a certain age,” Payne said. “If anything, it becomes more meaningful because you better understand how knowledge can be applied and shared.”
But despite his success in life, his dream to pursue a master’s degree was left undone. And Payne, who began battling Parkinson’s Disease after his retirement, was determined to reach that goal.
He returned to Lander for a third time in 2023. However, this time, college was different.
“I felt a bit like Rip Van Winkle,” he said, referencing the character who fell into a deep sleep and awakened 20 years later. “Technology changes are taking place all the time, and I wanted to learn about today's business courses and upgrade my computer skills. I checked into taking courses at Lander University as a senior citizen, and all the professors were very supportive.”
Although many courses were computer based, some were on Lander’s campus. “I met many great people, and the professors all were very good,” he said. “I can’t say enough about the professors, staff and students. Lander’s IT (information technology) staff were very helpful, too.”
As a graduate student, Payne brought a unique perspective shaped by years of real-world experience. His contributions to discussions with students were enriched by a lifetime of lessons, and his presence served as a powerful reminder to classmates that education is a lifelong pursuit rather than a single phase of life. “I hope that my being in class will help students understand that they can do anything they want in life. They always were respectful to me.”
Payne’s wife Pam said the courses have benefited her husband. “I think any educational pursuit keeps your mind active as you learn new things. I’m so proud of Freddie. He has worked hard throughout his life to achieve many goals, and he certainly worked hard for this degree.”
Payne’s achievement resonates beyond his own story. It stands as an inspiration to those who may hesitate to return to school, questioning whether it is “too late” to pursue a new goal. His journey sends a clear message: growth, discovery and achievement are always within reach.
“I would advise anyone who wants to get a college education to check in with Lander to see what they have to offer and give it a chance,” Payne said. “This goes to nontraditional students, as well as traditional students. Lander University is a very good University and has a staff committed to helping students of all ages.”
As Lander University celebrates Payne’s accomplishment, it also celebrates the spirit of lifelong learning he embodies. The journey that Payne undertook is a reminder that education is not just about earning degrees, but about continually striving to learn and contribute at every stage of life.