Graduation Column
As our 2022 graduates walk across the stage, I want to take a moment to congratulate them for their hard work and accomplishments.
This year’s class walks across the stage in the shadow of a once in a hundred-year pandemic. The disruption in their education experience in the closing years of high school is unfortunate. Along with their teachers and all who love them, they have overcome their challenges through perseverance, dedication and fortitude.
The world the class of 2022 is entering is very different from the world in which I grew up. The truth is that the world is a much different place than what existed when these graduates entered high school as freshmen. This class is the first to experience the disruptions brought on by COVID-19 and experienced a return to a somewhat normal educational experience before graduation.
They enter higher education, the armed forces or the workforce on the heels of a global pandemic and amid global unrest and economic uncertainty. The character traits that led to their young successes thus far will also bring them future success.
Despite the many challenges awaiting them, I believe there is hope for future generations, including those who receive their diplomas this year. Much of my hope lies in these graduates. The same tenacity they exuded during these unprecedented last two years is what will bring them continued success in their future endeavors. Their strength and resiliency will carry our state and nation to continued greatness. We have so much to learn from these bright young people to whom the future belongs.
The class of 2022 has a chance to make a difference in their hometown, state, and country. I encourage graduates to strive for greatness while keeping a servant’s heart and always remember to help those who cannot help themselves.
Congratulations on this life accomplishment. Enjoy the moment and be the change you wish to see.