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Press release from the University of Alabama:
April 26, 2022
As she looked into her newborn son's eyes, Aaliyah Locke made him a promise: She would do whatever it took to succeed.
Five years later, on Mother's Day with her son cheering her on, she'll cross the commencement stage to receive her Juris Doctor.
"Graduating on Mother's Day, surrounded by my family, it's almost a full circle," Locke said. "I wouldn't be here if it weren't for their support and faith in me."
Growing up in Murphysboro, Illinois, Locke always knew she wanted to go to law school. She was inspired by her family's dedication and service to the legal system — her grandfather worked as a police officer and correctional officer.
In 2017, Locke gave birth to her son, Quentin, while attending Southern Illinois University. She earned her bachelor's degree in public relations in 2019. The single mother loved being close to family, especially after her son was born. But she dreamed of opportunities beyond her hometown as she applied to law schools. And then, Claude Reeves Arrington, associate dean of admissions for The University of Alabama Law School, called.
This press release was produced by the University of Alabama. The views expressed here are the author's own.
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