Two caps, one dream: Mom and daughter graduate together at MCC
On graduation day at Meridian Community College, one mom wasn’t just sitting in the crowd—she walked across the stage beside her daughter.
Earron Stewart, 40, and her daughter Earieonaa Coleman, 21, both of Meridian, received their degrees during MCC’s Spring 2025 Career and Technical Education Commencement. For this mother-daughter duo, it was more than a ceremony—it was a celebration of second chances, big dreams, and a legacy in the making.
“I’m proud of my momma,” said Coleman, who earned her associate of applied science degree in Culinary Arts Technology. “She’s my biggest motivation. Seeing her go through so much and still keep going—that pushes me.” Stewart received her AAS degree in Media Production Technology.
Coleman’s journey in the culinary field started in 2020 when she began a home-based business, Earieonaa’s Sweets, making cake pops and other desserts. After graduating from Meridian High School in the Spring of 2023, Coleman came to MCC in August 2023 and blended her side hustle into a passion and career.
She remembered her early days in the culinary arts studies. “I didn’t even know how to use a knife properly,” she said. “Now I’ve learned all the techniques—and about tools I didn’t even know existed.”
Last month, Coleman was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society, which recognizes outstanding students in career and technical education programs. To qualify for membership, students must be enrolled in a career and technical program, earn a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale, and complete at least 24 credit hours. Students also demonstrate honesty, responsibility, teamwork, leadership, and good citizenship.
Balancing school, work, and her business hasn’t been easy. For holidays and special occasions baking, she often works through the night to fill orders before heading to class the next morning. But her dream of opening her bakery keeps her going.
Her mom’s dream took shape differently.
Stewart enrolled at MCC in the Fall of 2010 but left college. After surviving a near-fatal shooting, Stewart decided it was time to return to her educational journey and enrolled at MCC in Fall 2023 - this time coming along with her daughter.
“School opened the right doors for me,” Stewart said. “I’ve always loved telling stories—taking pictures, writing, editing video. Media Production gave me a path to do that.”
While at MCC, she joined Phi Theta Kappa and has earned a scholarship to Mississippi State University. She plans to pursue a degree in social work and eventually a doctorate in sociology.
During graduation, she was named a member of the Circle of Excellence. The students, who studied in both the College’s University Transfer Program and the career and technical education programs, are saluted for their academic achievement, leadership, community service, and spirit.
“I want to show my kids what’s possible,” Stewart said. “I don’t just say education is important. I’m doing it—with them watching.”
Returning to college after a long break came with challenges. Stewart credits MCC’s Academic Fresh Start program and the support of MCC Advisor Deborah Nettles for helping her move forward.
“When I came back, the first person I met was Ms. Nettles. She told me, ‘You’re going to do this,’ and she helped me every step of the way,” Stewart said. “And she helped Earieonaa, too.”
Nettles noted the mother and daughter were very determined in their educational pursuits. “They’ve been partners throughout this whole process and very supportive of each other,” she said.
Both agree that MCC provided them more than an education—it gave them confidence, purpose, and a sense of family.
“I started dreaming bigger here,” Coleman said. “I’ve met the best people. I feel like I finally got the recognition I didn’t get before.”
After graduation, both women will continue their education in the fall. Coleman has been offered a scholarship to Mississippi University for Women, and is also considering a path in the Army as a culinary specialist. Stewart is looking for jobs in media and broadcasting, and plans to start at Mississippi State University – Meridian in August.
Their story is already inspiring others—including Coleman’s older brothers, who are now thinking about enrolling at MCC.
“This is a big milestone,” said Stewart. “My parents didn’t graduate from high school. Now I get to graduate college with my child. That’s the kind of legacy we want to leave.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.