Not sure that I’ve ever been so honored to introduce someone as I am right now.

Gac Filipaj is a refugee from the former Yugoslavia. For the past twelve years, he has worked as a janitor for Columbia University.  His job title is “Heavy Cleaner,” which includes emptying the trash and cleaning the toilets. 

During this time, he worked until 11pm every night during the week.  After his shift concluded, he would start studying.  This weekend, after twelve years of study, Gac graduated from Columbia University with a Classics degree.  Rarely have so many qualities I admire been wrapped up in a single person.