At 84, STCC alumnus Ishmael Ali reflects on college’s impact on his life

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – As a young man, Ishmael Ali never thought he would attend college but he always carried a love for learning in his heart.

When he was in his late 30s, Ali used to go to the Springfield City Library to discover books. He enjoyed finding out about people from far-away places like Africa. A librarian noticed Ali’s hunger for knowledge and encouraged him to apply to Springfield Technical Community College.

Heeding the librarian’s advice, Ali enrolled at STCC where he wanted to learn more about communications. It was 1975, and he also started volunteering at the college radio station, WTCC, 90.7 FM. Two years later, he earned an associate degree in liberal arts/general studies.

Today, nearly 50 years later, Ali holds an honorary doctorate in communications. He feels a strong bond with STCC.

“I have never forgotten the learning and teaching I received from STCC,” said Ali, who is 84. He is married to Medina Ali, who he met at STCC. She is the principal of Frank H. Freedman Elementary School.

Ali, who is Black, grew up poor in the South and says he understands the struggles faced by students from lower income backgrounds. STCC, the most affordable college in Springfield, maintains an open admissions policy which reduces barriers to higher education.

“Without a college like STCC, many of us would never be able to go to school to get a formal education,” Ali said. “I was fortunate to come here years ago, and it helped carve my life.”

Ali said he not only appreciated the classroom experience, but also the cultural events which are open to the community. STCC hosts a variety of diverse speakers, including authors, scholars and artists.

I have never forgotten the learning and teaching I received from STCC. Dr. Ishmael Ali '77 STCC alumnus

“Many people of great importance have come through. Poets and philosophers have all been here at the school,” Ali said.

Ali recalled his time as a student at STCC in the 1970s.  In class, he learned how to use cameras and speak on a microphone. When he started volunteering at WTCC, the radio station had only been on the air for three years.

“They allowed me to come on once a week and do educational things about what I was learning, the people I met and how I was treated at school,” Ali said. “I started a program, ‘The Dream Production.’ It aired every Saturday.”

Ali remembered college classes were difficult the first year but became easier for him as he kept up studies. He appreciated the support of his professors.

In 1977, when graduation day arrived, Ali brought his son (who was 2-years-old at the time) with him across the stage to get his degree. His wife, Medina, also graduated on the same day.

“It turned out to be one of the proudest moments of my life,” Ali said. “That day was many years ago, but I am still here, with an appreciation and love for STCC.”

Ali said it’s never too late to get an education, and it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and passions.

“I encourage anyone who wants to enhance and better their lives to consider STCC,” Ali said. “This is a community college here in our own neighborhood, and it can help you grow in leaps and bounds.”

Watch a YouTube video of Dr. Ali reflecting on STCC's importance in the community.

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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