Marching in cap and gown, Melody Pelham and her daughter Sarah Pelham crossed the stage—earning degrees on the same day, at the same university, on Mother’s Day weekend.

For Melody, the day was more than a personal milestone. As a dedicated Registered Nurse (RN) at the Birmingham VA Health Care System, her return to school was driven by a deeper purpose. 

“We’ve got so many Veterans in our family, and I’m so proud to be a VA nurse,” she said. “I don’t know how far advancing my degree will take me, but the Veterans deserve our best care.” 

Supported by her colleagues and encouraged by the VA’s focus on employee development, Melody graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the College of Nursing’s RN to BSN program, a milestone that opens the door to an expanded impact in her role.

Boasting a nursing career spanning 30 years, Melody has worked at the Birmingham VA for more than 16 of those, most recently as a RN Case Manager. Despite her experience, returning to school while working full-time, managing family responsibilities, and serving as a caregiver wasn’t easy.

“I always knew I was going to get my Bachelor’s degree, but I just didn’t know when,” she said. “I was a team mom who focused on getting Sarah through school while supporting her in every sport. I am also a caregiver for my father, who is a disabled Veteran, and was a caregiver for my mother as well. It’s been a challenge.”

For Sarah, soon to begin a career in accounting, her mother has been the greatest inspiration. 

“I’ve never met someone that has more on their plate, but from the outside you would never know. She’s always everywhere, in the best way possible, like she has superpowers,” says Sarah. “She does so many things successfully and while she cares for so many others, she still takes into consideration the goals she wants to accomplish too. I try to encourage her like how she’s always encouraged me.” 

Graduating alongside her mother was the ultimate moment of pride but was not something they had planned. 

“To have this accomplishment, this milestone, fall on Mother’s Day weekend is crazy,” said Sarah. “We had no idea this was going to happen. With everything that’s happened this [last] year, God’s plan is always greater and to celebrate this together in Auburn on Mother’s Day weekend is amazing.”

Last Fall, Melody lost both her mother and grandmother, while Sarah lost her grandmother and great-grandmother. Though their fields are different, the bond they share grew stronger through this shared academic journey. 

“My mother and grandmother were both very strong women who were proud of us, and I know they both would have loved to have been there,” said Melody. “I don’t know if this graduation could have been at a better time. It’s the best Mother’s Day present ever.” 

This Mother’s Day, the two didn’t just celebrate with flowers or cards. They reminisced on this once-in-a-lifetime moment—walking the stage on the same day, diplomas in hand, knowing their efforts have paved the way for personal growth and public service.

For Melody, the next chapter is clear: continuing her mission to serve Veterans with renewed knowledge and purpose. 

“Every Veteran who walks through our doors deserves someone who’s not just compassionate, but also prepared,” she said. “This degree helps me do that. If I can help one Veteran a day and make a difference, that makes me happy.”