GGC Graduate Pays Forward Her Grade School Teachers’ Inspiration

From Georgia Gwinnett College

Selma Kebo graduated Thursday from Georgia Gwinnett College with a purposeful intention to make a difference in the lives of elementary school students in Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) – because her GCPS teachers made a difference in her own life.

“I was not the smartest student,” said Kebo, who was the featured student speaker at Thursay’s commencement. “I was inspired to work hard by how my teachers pushed me and believed in me. I want to be able to share that inspiration with future generations. My decision to become a teacher stems from what my teachers and GGC professors have instilled in me.”

Her parents, Nijaz and Nura Kebo, wanted their three children to have access to a better life and better opportunities. The family immigrated to the United States from Bosnia and Herzegovina when she was seven years old and settled in Gwinnett County. Throughout her childhood, Kebo attended GCPS schools, for which her parents work as custodians.

After graduating from Archer High School, the Lawrenceville resident enrolled at Georgia Gwinnett College and majored in early childhood education. During her time in college, she worked in child care at Gold’s Gym. She completed her degree in four years, graduated with honors, and was selected to present remarks in today’s commencement ceremony on the GGC campus.

In her remarks, Kebo cited her third- and fourth-grade teacher, Kim Looney of Harbins Elementary School in Dacula, as being particularly influential. Unknown to Kebo, the college made arrangements for Looney to introduce her.

“The American Dream is about to stand before you. Selma is a young lady living out what has made our country so strong,” Looney said. She shared memories of Kebo’s early struggle with English, and how determined she was to have full access to learning. “She shows us that perseverance, dedication, hard work and grit are still what it takes to make dreams reality.”

After a brief but emotional reunion with Looney at the podium, Kebo proceeded with her remarks to the crowd of more than 3,000. She shared her family’s story and expressed gratitude to her family, professors and fellow classmates for their support.

“I charge you to not let your education stop here,” Kebo said to her graduating class of more than 300. “I charge you to never give up on your passions. I charge you to follow your heart. Finally, I charge you to pride yourself on being a lifelong learner. …Remember these words spoken by Muhammad Ali. ‘If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it - then I can achieve it.’”

Kebo has been hired to teach fourth grade at Lilburn Elementary School, where she received her student-teaching experience. Like about half of GGC’s students, she is the first member of her family to earn a bachelor’s degree.