Lifelong learner Hurl Taylor, 86, is Emory’s oldest graduate — again

At 86, Hurl Taylor is the oldest graduate in Emory’s class of 2025. And it’s not the first time he’s held that distinction.

He was also the oldest graduate in the class of 2016, when he completed a master’s of religion and public life (MRPL) at Candler School of Theology. This time around, he’ll be graduating with a master’s in business for military veterans (MBV) through a new program offered by Goizueta School of Business. He is part of its inaugural graduating cohort.

His degree count doesn’t stop there, though. He has two more from Emory: a 1985 juris doctorate and a 1986 master’s in litigation, both from the law school. He has five additional advanced degrees from other institutions.

Full article: https://news.emory.edu/stories/2025/05/er_commencement_profile_goizueta_hurl_taylor_08-05-2025/story.html

 

Props to him!

I've considered going back for a post-bacc or Special Master's Program (SMP) of medical school prerequisites, "just in case." I could also see myself pursuing degrees in Islamic or Arabic Studies. Maybe a certificate in French proficiency or a second bachelor's degree in math. I've got 50 years to catch up to him, I think I can fit it all in

 

When I graduated from USNY Regents, I was the youngest to receive a BA that cycle. But who got interviewed on TV? The 77-year-old dude who was the oldest. All props to him, though. His was the real story.