As the world says good-bye to more and more members of America’s Greatest Generation, Ripon College has granted the birthday wish of a woman who’s turning 100 this month. In 1942, Lois Ohnstad attended Ripon College in Ripon, WI, but wasn’t able to graduate. Her daughter, Debra, says Lois’ only regret in life is not earning her bachelor’s degree. After Debra reached out to Ripon College, President Victoria Folse visited Lois in Menomonie, WI to present her with an honorary bachelor of arts degree on her 100th birthday. Lois notes she attended Ripon College during wartime, “when all the men were gone.” After her year at Ripon, Lois later earned her diploma in nursing from Columbia School of Nursing in Milwaukee. At least four members of Lois’ family also attended Ripon College, which is a private liberal arts institution nestled in Ripon, Wisconsin. Founded in 1851, Ripon College is dedicated to delivering personalized education through a diverse array of undergraduate programs and extracurricular opportunities, ensuring students enjoy a well-rounded college experience. Ripon College enrolls 700 undergraduates with a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1. The college’s picturesque, historic campus and vibrant community provide a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
