Now on his 4th attempt to complete an Associate Degree, 62-year old Bronx Community College (BCC) student Clinton Lettesome – a loving grandfather of four – has spent his entire life working to accept his learning differences that result from his Dyslexia (which he was diagnosed with at age 44). For years, he struggled to read, not being able to make it through a single book. He was told he was lazy and stupid and felt ashamed of himself.

Clinton resided in London until the age of 19. He recalls the time when he was selected to do a reading to the Queen when his soccer team won a championship. He was too scared and too ashamed of his reading ability to muster up the courage to attend the event and instead  climbed a mango tree  to “disappear”, spending hours just sitting in the tree feeling sad.

This time, he is taking advantage of extensive support in place to assist him in achieving  his dream of walking across the stage at graduation. At BCC, Clinton now receives 1:1 tutoring three times per week; has a special OrCam Read device that scans books and reads out loud to him and a specific soundproof room at North Hall & Library that is devoted especially for him. He is determined to get his degree in Human Services and says nothing will stop him.

During National Disability Month (April), Clinton wants others with disabilities to know that their disabilities don’t define them. He has been active this semester in planning and organizing meetings on BCC’s campus for older adult students (many with learning differences) to assist them with technology.

Clinton, with nine brothers and sisters, has been working since the age of 12. His siblings are all highly educated with college degrees. Clinton’s job experiences have included working for Medicare and U.S. Customs and 21 years managing a grocery store. Though he is officially retired, this next act is the one he is most looking forward to.