Mother of Waffle House Shooting Victim Accepts Diploma On Daughter’s Behalf

On Saturday night, Sherl Baker walked across the stage at Belmont University in Nashville to accept her daughter’s diploma. DeEbony Groves, who was shot at a local Waffle House on April 22, had been working for several years to receive her degree in social work, according to CNN.

DeEbony’s brother, Di’Angelo, was to graduate alongside her, and received his diploma from Belmont on Saturday as well. During the tearful commencement ceremony, Di’Angelo announced a social work scholarship which was founded in DeEbony’s honor, according to USA Today. The announcement received a standing ovation from the crowd as Sherl Baker wiped tears from her son’s face and they consoled each other.

Robert Fisher, president of Belmont University, spoke about DeEbony at the commencement ceremony. “Almost two weeks ago, our community suffered an unimaginable loss…While out hearts are broken, we have the chance to celebrate DeEbony’s life together.”

Carla is a recent graduate of Touro College in New York City, where she developed a keen ability to joke her way out of anything. She has previously worked for the Mayor's Office of New York, as well as ABC7 Eyewitness News. She is currently the Senior Editor at CMN, and can be reached at carla@collegemedianetwork.com.