Duluth Denfeld’s 2024 commencement was a memorable occasion for the 200 happy, smiling students earning their high school diplomas that day. University of Wisconsin-Superior freshman, Grace Nonnemacher, was one such student.

One graduate walking the stage that day, however, didn’t fit the typical demographic. At 101 years old, Two Harbors, Minnesota, resident Harlan Olson was also – at long last – receiving his high school diploma, too.

He was originally meant to receive it back in 1943 but was drafted into the Army to serve in WWII, and missed his commencement ceremony. After 81 years and with Nonnemacher’s help, Olson finally received the recognition he so rightfully deserves.

An Unlikely Friendship

With a more than 80-year age gap between them, Nonnemacher and Olson’s friendship is perhaps an unlikely one. The two met while attending United Church of Two Harbors, and quickly formed a special bond.

“I was looking for people in my age group, but I always saw him sitting in church,” Nonnemacher said. “I enjoyed hearing his stories and spending fellowship with him.”

After getting better acquainted, Nonnemacher learned that Olson had never received the high school diploma that was rightfully his. She mentioned this to her father, Dave, who jumped into action.

Phone calls were made, and Duluth Denfeld Principal Tom Tusken was very receptive to having Olson participate in the commencement ceremony. Tusken was even able to find Olson’s original diploma – from 1943.

Olson agreed to participate, but on one condition: only if his friend Grace would escort him across the stage. Nonnemacher was proud to be a part of Olson’s special day, walking side-by-side with him and watching him receive a standing ovation.

Olson’s entire family, including his wife, Pat, and their children and grandchildren, were also in the audience, cheering him on.

“Harlan went first and led the way,” Nonnemacher said. “People were crying, and he got a standing ovation. I asked him if he was nervous and he said, ‘No. I’m ready.’”

Grace’s Future

Nonnemacher has an interesting life story. She was born in the African country of Liberia and adopted by an American family of Ukrainian descent.

She and her five siblings grew up in Minnesota, and she has lived in Two Harbors, Grand Marais and Duluth. Her father, Dave, works for a non-profit organization, and her mother, Jody, works for the Superior Hiking Trail’s gift shop.

Nonnemacher is a talented athlete and grew up playing volleyball and running track. She was recruited to attend UW-Superior and participate on the Yellowjacket track and field team as a sprinter and long-jumper.   

Nonnemacher is only in her first month of college, but is enjoying the experience so far. “We had a really nice orientation,” she noted of her introduction to UWS.

“It was nice to get to know other students and learn about places to turn if we need help. The university provides really great activities, clubs, and intramurals, too.”

At this point, Nonnemacher is taking her general education courses, but is really enjoying her marketing and business class. “I’m currently undecided on my major, but I might decide on marketing and business,” she explained. “I think I’d like to own my own business someday.”

In her spare time, Nonnemacher enjoys hanging out with friends and learning Tik Tok dances. She lives on-campus and is currently looking for an on-campus job.

Never Too Late

The beautiful friendship between Olson and Nonnemacher is proof positive that it’s never too late to achieve a goal or make a new friend. The two continue to stay in touch and enjoy sharing coffee together after church services.

Sharing the meaningful experience of commencement day truly helped cement the bond of friendship between these two graduates.

“It was so nice to just be in that moment with Harlan and share that experience with him,” Nonnemacher said. “I’m proud to be a part of his journey.”