Higher Ed Utah

This story shows how one woman was able to get much-needed work skills by returning to school and getting an associate’s degree. She is living proof that higher education is possible no matter where you are in life, and now she is giving back to Salt Lake Community College.

(Kylie Conway, ABC 4 News) — Maria Bardini is a talented and admired local artist. At 66 years old she’s also a testimony that it’s never too late to pursue a dream.

Blessed with an artistic talent at a young age she put her passion on hold to raise a family. “And I was so happy that I chose that because I have my children, my grandchildren, they are my inspiration and now I can do my art,” said Bardini.

Salt Lake Community College honored Bardini as they unveiled her masterpiece outside the college Friday. The sculpture is a Bruin Bear that Bardini carved out of a 14-ton piece of Moen Koeppi Red Sandstone. “And just seeing it emerge from the stone, the bear, it was wonderful,” said Bardini.

After her husband’s death, Bardini enrolled in SLCC. She had no skills for the workforce and graduated with an associate’s degree two years later.  “It provided me with the steps to go into higher education and I am grateful for that,” said Bardini.

For the rest of this story from ABC 4, click here.