Local mom has much to offer with new education, career

Delilah Morehead celebrated Mother’s Day, her college graduation and the beginning of a new career, all in the same weekend.
Morehead was among those to receive degrees during Seminole State College’s 75th commencement this spring. The Paden native received an associate’s degree in business, and began a new chapter in her life.
Morehead spent 30 years working at a local Wrangler plant, and 20 of those years was spent as a supervisor. When she discovered her job would be relocated, she decided to take a temporary position working at the Department of Environmental Quality.
Morehead said she enjoyed the change, but realized that if she wanted to advance in the company she would have to obtain a college education.
In 2004, nearly 40 years after quitting high school, Morehead found herself preparing for a general education diploma (GED). She passed on the first attempt and prepared for college.
“It had always been my dream to continue my education,” she said. “I attended several seminars on the (SSC) campus while I worked at Wrangler. I knew that I wanted to come to school here, but I had put it off for so long.”
In 2005, Morehead began taking classes at the college.
“I remember walking into class and being so nervous,” she said. “I thought I was going to have a panic attack. A few students thought I was the teacher. But now, some tell me they wish their parents would go to college. I tell them to tell their parents about me. I’m here and doing fine.”
Morehead said she hopes her story can be a source of inspiration for others, especially to other adults considering college.
“Everyone around my age needs to continue their education,” she said. “It’s exciting to be around younger students.”
Morehead’s experience inspired her youngest daughter, Jennifer, to go back to school and pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. All of Morehead’s children, Terra, Andrea and Jeff, attended SSC.
During her time at SSC, Morehead’s husband underwent open-heart surgery and her grandson underwent two major operations.
“I definitely had my share of ups and downs since I started, but I was determined to finish,” she said. “It’s never too late to get an education. I’ve learned so much here and had the best instructors anyone could ask for.”
Morehead, 57, has accepted a position with Modern Oil Co. in Shawnee. Sharon Spartman, owner of Modern Oil Co., called Morehead the day after her interview to offer her the job.
“When she called, she said they would be honored if I joined their staff,” Morehead said. “I had never heard someone hiring an employee say something so earnest. I have been on several interviews and they would call back and say that I have the experience but not the degree to the position. I came back and learned the skills I needed. I know that is the reason I got the job.”
Morehead said she plans to take online courses through East Central University to obtain a bachelor’s of science degree in business.