75 years later: Hancock County Schools confers honorary diploma

NEW CUMBERLAND -- After 75 years, Carmen McBride can finally add high school graduate to her list of life's achievements.

During Monday's meeting of the Hancock County Board of Education, McBride, surrounded by family, was surprised with an honorary diploma from Weir High School.

"There may have been a few minor fibs told in the last few weeks," explained Superintendent Dan Enich, noting he and family members have been working to arrange the presentation.

Carmen Anita Gil McBride is the oldest child of Jose Rodriguez Gil and Ethel Marie Gil. Her mother died when McBride was 11 years old.

While young, she stepped forward to assume many of the household responsibilities, including the raising of her siblings, who were 10, 9 and 6 at the time. Her father was employed in the Strip Steel area of Weirton Steel.

"Household chores, preparing meals, assisting with homework, tending to her siblings and getting herself and them off to school each day was now a daily routine," Enich said.

McBride was set to graduate with the Weir High School Class of 1949, but withdrew from school only a few months short of graduation.

"Her homework assignment was returned with errors, and with the overwhelming responsibilities at home, she made the decision to put family first," Enich said.

McBride was presented her honorary diploma by Weir High School Principal Ted Arneault.

"What an inspiring story," Arneault said.

McBride teared up while being handed her diploma, with a graduation cap placed on her head by school board member Randy Swartzmiller.

"I'm overwhelmed," she said.

In addition to receiving her diploma, McBride also was declared a "Game Changer," as part of a program launched in 2023 by Hancock County Schools. Under the program, individuals with connections to Hancock County Schools are recognized for going above and beyond to make a difference for others.

McBride and her husband, Jim, raised five daughters, with 31 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

"Throughout the years, she has attended many high school and college graduations for her own family," Enich said. "Although no degree can guarantee a successful life, Carmen's was successful in more ways than you can imagine," Enich said.