A Red Deer father and son are the first in the University of Liverpool’s 129-year history to graduate together with the same degree at the same time.
They also have the same name.
In July, Jeff Wood Sr. and Jeff Wood Jr. graduated together with a master of business administration (MBA) from the storied British University.
The father and son are both currently working overseas but they have roots in Central Alberta.
Jeff Wood Sr. lived in Red Deer since 1972 where he raised his family before leaving to work in other countries. He owns a property management company and oil engineer company in the city. Currently he is a drilling manager in the Middle East.
The distinction was something the father and son did not intentionally set out to earn.
Jeff Wood Sr. first enrolled in the program, and completed his courses before his son.
After deciding to earn his MBA, the son decided to enroll in the online program because it allowed him to continue working as an engineer in Bangkok,Thailand.
“At the time we never planned on taking the courses together,” said Jeff Wood Jr. “It ended up that my dad signed up first and then six months later I registered since it has always been something on my list to do.”
The graduation date just seemed to be good timing. To be recognized by the university was a great honour, say both father and son.
“We had never planned this to be an additional accomplishment other than completing and graduating with and MBA but once we found out it never really affected me till sometime had passed,” said Jeff Wood Sr.
“The school has such a long-established history.”
The son said the graduation will be something they will always remember.
“Once the chancellor spoke about it during the convocation it was a special moment, something to always remember,” said Jeff Wood Jr.
“The best part was that we were able to be joined by friends and family who were also from Red Deer.”
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com