‘Purpose has no expiration date’: At 71, Johnson proves it’s never too late to learn…or teach

March 10, 2026

Learning is a lifelong journey. Just ask Glasenia A. Johnson; at 71, she stands as a living testament to the power of education—and reinvention.

Johnson, a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, now living in McDonough, Georgia, expects to finish her master of arts in teaching in special education this spring. For her, “this degree is far more than a credential—it is proof that determination, passion and service can continue to deepen with time. There truly is no expiration date on learning.”

“Throughout my time at Columbus State, I have consistently felt supported, encouraged and professionally empowered in ways that directly impacted my growth as an educator,” she added. “[The faculty’s] emphasis on practical application, reflection and student-centered practices has played a significant role in shaping my success and continues to influence my work every day.”

This degree isn’t her first, second…or even third. She previously earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Spelman College, a master of arts in religious education from Luther Rice College & Seminary, and two doctoral degrees—in instructional design for online learning and in leadership and management—from Capella University.

Before pivoting into special education, she spent 34 years at Quest Diagnostics in Tucker, Georgia, where she was the supervisor of training and quality assurance. Her impact there was significant: she overhauled the department’s training program and rewrote a manual that was eventually adopted nationwide.

“I have unknowingly been a teacher all of my adult life,” Johnson reflected. “What one is determined to do can be achieved.”

After her corporate career with Quest, she spent a decade in real estate at Coldwell Banker Bullard Realty in McDonough, earning her broker’s license and becoming the “unofficial go-to person” for colleagues handling complex processes.

A heart for the unseen

Johnson’s shift to special education is motivated by her desire to advocate for the vulnerable. She considers her newest degree a tool to deliver effective instruction and compassionate support to children who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

“My advanced training allows me to provide... stronger advocacy and compassionate behavior support—ensuring that students who often feel unseen receive the encouragement and opportunities they deserve,” she said.

She plans to use her maturity and experience to reassure families that progress is always achievable, regardless of circumstances. She also hopes her presence among the spring graduating class sends a message not just to her students but also to her peers. She wants to demonstrate to younger teachers that perseverance matters and remind her generation that they still have much to offer.

“This achievement symbolizes hope,” Johnson said. “It reminds me that every new skill I learn, every strategy I apply, and every child I support adds meaning to my life’s work.”

Adult learners’ growing prevalence

Hope and support have symbolized Johnson’s own journey as an adult learner at Columbus State. Redefining the modern campus, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that nearly 40% of all current American college students are 25 or older—representing a large group of about 7.5 million learners balancing school with work and personal life.

“Returning to college later in life is not a setback—it is a strategic decision grounded in experience, purpose and clarity,” Johnson said. “Older learners often bring discipline, real-world context and intrinsic motivation that traditional students are still developing. Use that to your advantage. Be intentional about selecting a program that aligns directly with your current career or a clearly defined goal, so your coursework has immediate relevance and payoff.”

She also provides useful tips for adult learners thinking about going back to school.

“Expect the process to require strong time management and persistence, especially when balancing work, family and academic responsibilities,” she added. “Build systems early—calendars, routines and support networks—to stay organized and reduce stress. Don’t hesitate to leverage institutional resources such as advisors, professors and tutoring services; they are there to support your success.”

Johnson has no plans to slow down. She intends to dedicate her “experience, wisdom and heart” to helping students with exceptional needs. Although she is currently focused on the classroom, her desire for knowledge remains unquenched—she is already seriously considering going back for a master of arts in behavior analysis in the future (“…but that can wait awhile,” she added).

To Johnson, the mission is clear: “I will continue teaching, encouraging and advocating—proving by example that it is never too late to pursue your calling or to make a difference in the world.”

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News image: Glasenia Johnson set against a blue-tinted background image of the Whitley Clock Tower on Columbus State’s Main Campus.

Media contact: Michael Tullier, APR, Executive Director of Strategic Communication + Marketing, 706.507.8729, mtullier@columbusstate.edu