The following is a press release from North Carolina State University, www.ncsu.edu/news/press_releases/04_05/167.htm,
concerning one of our most promising graduates for 2004.
May 10, 2004
Commencement 2004: Interesting Grads
An estimated 3,487 students will receive degrees during Commencement ceremonies at North Carolina State University on Saturday, May 15. Following is a short profiles of one of those students. The student's story could add to your coverage of graduation activities or provide material for an interesting feature story.
A Long Time Coming, but Degree in Sight for David Patton
Tanning hides for the likes of rock stars, NASCAR drivers and prestigious museums just wasn"t enough for Robert David Patton.
The 39-year-old, who took his first class at NC State in 1988 and managed to fit in classes around his busy work schedule as a fur dresser, will complete his degree in Agricultural Business Management with a concentration in Biological Sciences and a minor in Economics. After spending 17 years in a career of tanning the hides of a variety of animals for the rich and famous -- rock star Ted Nugent and NASCAR driver Terry Labonte, among others -- Patton is going into business for himself.
He"s purchasing a tannery that is going out of business, and will open Lonestar Fur Dressing Company later this summer. He"ll work on custom tanning for the sheep and goat industry; his business will be one of only three such tanneries in the United States. He hopes to later purchase more machinery and enter the taxidermy tanning industry.
Patton will work a second job with Caterpillar while he gets his business off the ground. His degree will come in handy as he looks to advance in that company.
ìI have been working and going to school now for 17 years,î he says. ìNow I will work two jobs instead of going to school and working.î
Patton lives with his wife and 2-year-old daughter in Clayton, N.C. He can be reached at darwin98@att.net.
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