President congratulates local grad

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OMAHA, NEB. — Margaret O’Connor began her education at Finger Lake Elementary and graduates from Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, with honors in May with a degree in political science and a minor in Native American history.

While thousands of students graduated from university and high school programs this month, O’Connor is unique for a letter she received from President Barack Obama lauding her accomplishment.

“Congratulations on your graduation. This special occasion is the culmination of years of study, and I am pleased to join your family and friends in celebrating this milestone,” the letter reads, in part.

Proud father Vinnie O’Connor said a family friend said he was going to ask U.S. Sen. Mark Begich to request a letter of congratulations for Margaret but he said they never thought it would happen.

“We are still shocked,” he said.