Arkansas Tech student receives degree, engagement ring at commencement

MorgueFile

LaSabra Robertson, one of the final graduates to receive her degree at the recent Arkansas Tech University commencement, headed back to her seat only to be stopped and proposed to by Anthony Maltbia – in front of 3,000 people.

When asked when he first thought about proposing, Maltbia said, “Four years ago when I first met her. It’s been a long four years, but we’ve made it through. We were both going to Arkansas Tech, but I took this year off to get her and my son situated. Maybe I’ll be back. I’m very proud. You don’t know how many nights I would watch her study and lose sleep.”

Robertson was surprised by the timing, but not by the proposal. She said she had expected it to be soon, but not that day.

She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Now, aside from wedding planning, Robertson claims to have one major goal in sight. She wants to repay Maltbia for his help with their child by ensuring he can finish his degree in engineering.

“That’s my No. 1 goal,” Robertson said.