Following in her footsteps: Mace bearer and alumna to lead the way as daughter crosses the stage

(ROCHESTER, NY — MAY 7, 2024) Graduations are often a family affair, but for Kara Lockwood and her mother, Joanne Knapp-Elvidge, commencement takes on a deeper meaning this year. Knapp-Elvidge will be leading the procession of this year’s Class of 2024 graduates in Empire State University’s Rochester ceremony with her daughter behind her, walking across the stage to join SUNY Empire’s alumni community.

“The pride I have in knowing I watch my daughter walk, and I will lead the procession that takes her to that moment, is a feeling I’m not sure I can put into words,” Knapp-Elvidge said. 

“Although this is an accomplishment for me, this is an even bigger accomplishment for my mother,” Lockwood said. “She has been my role model my entire life. She is the definition of hard work, determination, and overall grit to succeed. I am honored to follow her across the stage to signify that I am following in her footsteps.”

Lockwood said attending college as a non-traditional student was challenging but invigorating and allowed her to balance many commitments, including a full-time job and a family, while pursuing an education.

“I entered college for the first time immediately after high school, and although I believed I chose the correct major, my interests were always elsewhere,” Lockwood said. “I believe that age and life experience play a large role in my experience this time around, but I can also attribute the great professors I had the pleasure to work with.”

Like her daughter, Knapp-Elvidge graduated from Empire State University, earning multiple degrees while raising a family and working full time, including a bachelor’s degree in 1997 and a master’s degree in 2003. Now, she serves as a professor, academic coordinator, and mentor for students at the university. Knapp-Elvidge also has five mentees walking in the Rochester, NY ceremony.

“I know each of their stories, and I am proud they allowed me to be part of their educational journey,” Knapp-Elvidge said. “I am aware of the challenges and barriers they have overcome to walk the stage in May, and it is a reminder to me, as a professional, how each and every word and action I display can have a profound impact in their lives.”   

For both Knapp-Elvidge and Lockwood, this moment is made more significant because of their mutual admiration.

“There were many times I didn’t think I belonged or could do what was required to achieve success, and then I would look at my daughter and hear her young voice saying, ‘You can do this,’” Knapp-Elvidge said. “I’ve watched her work full time, help her husband start a new business, raise three young boys, volunteer her time to the community, and successfully complete her coursework. She is a true representation for Empire State University and serves as a role model to many.”

“This is the woman I strive to be and to be a light for my children to follow as well,” Lockwood said. “My mother has been my number one supporter, regardless of what I have done in life, and I know that this is one of her dreams to watch me walk across the stage. I am extremely grateful to have her by my side.”