Meet Lidalyn “Chiper” Tennessen, who once thought she would never get in to college, let alone earn two master’s degrees and, finally, an EdD in Leadership in Innovation and Continuous Improvement from CUW.
Okay, let’s get this out of the way: It’s pronounced “Chipper.” So why is Chiper spelled with only one “p”? (Chiper is a nickname bestowed by her family, short for “chip off the old block.”)
“Because I told my eighth grade teacher that it was my name, and I could spell it however I liked!” Chiper explains. As it turns out, being strong-willed and self-reliant has been instrumental in her achievements and has served Chiper well since then. Her story is so impressive we wanted to share it here—in her own words:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9
As I stand on the verge of graduation, my heart is filled with emotions. I am not just a graduate but a living testament to the transformative power of resilience, perseverance, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of a dream against all odds.
At 18, I started a journal documenting my hopes and dreams, dating each entry as I wrote it down. I would then return to mark the dates when I achieved each milestone. Among my aspirations were goals like getting married and becoming a mother. However, on September 12, 1992, I wrote, “Graduate with a doctoral degree.” Now, 32 years later, I am able to testify to the strength of overcoming adversity. Through every challenge, I discovered my inner strength and an unwavering belief that through God, anything is possible.
A long road
In a world that once suggested college was not a realistic option for me, my parents, my biggest supporters, taught me the value of hard work and the importance of aiming high and reaching for your dreams. They taught me that anything is possible if we set high standards for ourselves and persistently strive to achieve them.
My story is one of hard work and faith in my higher purpose. Picture this: the child of immigrants whose parents embarked on an 18-day voyage across the sea, filled with dreams that exceeded their circumstances. Despite lacking high school diplomas, they worked tirelessly, their hands calloused by labor, to build a better life for my sisters and me—all while recognizing the transformative power of education. Their dedication paid off as they built a solid family structure and a successful sausage company.
They were and continue to be my biggest supporters. I know they are smiling down from Heaven today. Mom, Dad, I did it! I achieved what they told me was impossible, and I stand here today as a living testament that perseverance is one of the most vital human traits. Remembering steady and strong through challenging times was my secret.
Don’t take ‘no’ for an answer
My college journey began in the shadow of skepticism, with doubts over my academic potential. I received a 13 on my ACT—twice—and was not in the upper half of my graduating class. A teacher once commented on my report card, “Good thing she is cute.” But I refused to let a test score define who I was. Fueled by an inner fire, I was determined to rise above those setbacks and become a teacher who could inspire others, especially the underdogs.
Through the winding halls of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, I found my way into a special program: the Department of Learning Skills and Equal Opportunities. My path into higher education began not with credit hours but with two years of non-credit classes. Teaching me how to succeed in college. On my first day, I sat wide-eyed, listening to a student that had just finished his Ph.D. and had once walked the same humble path as I. At that moment, I realized that if they could succeed, so could I. Then, I set a lofty goal: to graduate from college, get a master’s degree, and earn a doctorate. Transferring from UW Milwaukee to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, I graduated with an education degree.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” -Proverbs 3:5-6
College became my proving ground, a labyrinth of challenges that was not easy to navigate. I faced setbacks, moments of self-doubt, and countless nights weighed down by expectations. Yet, through those struggles, I discovered a strength that emerges when one chooses to persevere—step by step, believing in myself and in the power bestowed upon me through God. It is this faith that has been my guiding light, empowering me to overcome every obstacle and emerge stronger.
Well, two master’s degrees later, I stand as a living testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. My journey is more than just a collection of degrees; it represents the countless nights spent persevering, battling self-doubt, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to a dream many deemed impossible.
Message to fellow grads
May the emotions I feel today resonate within my fellow graduates, not just for my journey but for yours and everyone who dared to dream beyond their circumstances. As we all step into this new chapter, let our stories echo in the hearts of those who need it most—those underdogs who were told they weren’t smart enough or didn’t have the necessary skills.
Here’s to defying expectations, embracing the struggle, and proving that the human spirit, fortified by unwavering perseverance, can weather any storm. To the Class of 2024, may our stories serve as a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream. As we embark on this new journey, let us carry the essence of endless possibilities. As we look to the future, let us hold onto the words from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
May we embrace our dreams and confidently step into the paths ahead, knowing we are empowered to achieve great things.
Originally from East Troy, Wisconsin, Lidalyn has been married to Ben Tennessen (a former world champion bodybuilder) for 23 years. They have one son, Cameron, a sophomore at Badger High School in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. In addition to being a former national champion bodybuilder herself, Lidalyn is the curriculum director for the Lake Geneva School District.
For details about Saturday’s commencement ceremony and events, click HERE.
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