Peter Jennings, a well known newsman and GED recipient, began his career with ABC News in 1964. He covered many major historical events such as the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement and Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. He was named anchor of ABC's "World News Tonight" in 1983, a post he held for more than 20 years. Throughout the course of his career, Jennings earned 16 Emmy's and two Peabody Awards, as well as several other awards. He died in 2005 at the age of 67.
Actor Michael J. Fox began his professional career in 1976, at the age of 15. In order to devote sufficient time to his acting career, Fox earned his GED instead of attending traditional high school classes. He was catapulted to fame in the 1980s when he starred in the sitcom, "Family Ties," where he also met his wife, Tracy Pollen. The couple has since had four children together. Fox became even more famous when he starred in the movie, "Back to the Future," and its two sequels. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 1991, but continued to act while becoming an important advocate for Parkinson's research. He started the Michael J. Fox Foundation to further embryonic cell research which hopes to one day help people suffering from not only Parkinson's Disease, but other debilitating illnesses.
Bill Cosby, an actor, comedian and writer, is considered to be one of the most influential people of today. He starred in "The Cosby Show," an immensely popular sitcom, from 1984 until 1992. After "The Cosby Show," Cosby went on to write many bestselling books. Although he dropped out of high school to join the Navy while he in the 10th grade, he still earned his GED and attended Temple University once he left the Navy. He even went on to earn a doctorate in education from the University of Massachusetts. Not only was Cosby successful professionally and academically, but personally, as well. He has been married to his wife, Camille, since 1964 and together they raised five children.
Mary Lou Retton, a gymnast and GED recipient, won the All Around Gold Medal in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, making her the first American woman to ever win an Olympic gold medal in gymnastics. Today, in addition to raising her four daughters, she is a highly sought after motivational speaker. Retton is considered by some to be the most famous American athlete ever and has appeared on television as a host and commentator for events such as the 1988 Olympic Games.