My twin sons, Brian and Matthew, are graduating from college this year; I can hardly believe how the time has gone by.
The first graduation was celebrated at High Point University in North Carolina last weekend, May 5. University President Dr. Nido Qubein is an inspiration to the students, coming from a life of adversity to become a respected educator, philanthropist and passionate advocate for the development of our future leaders. He says “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you go; they merely determine where you start.”
Former First Lady Laura Bush, a key advocate of education reform and the No Child Left Behind Act, addressed the graduates at this year’s 88th commencement ceremony. She urged the class not to be afraid to take risk or change course; the twists and turns along life’s journey give it meaning and richness and value. A very wise man (her father-in law, the first President Bush!) said any definition of a successful life must include service to others. I truly believe in that and my children have embraced that attribute passionately.
I’m now looking forward to the second graduation, which will take place next weekend, May 19, at Bryant University in Rhode Island. Higher education is a noble goal and it is a major achievement to earn a degree. I extend my congratulations to all graduates everywhere.
And to all of the teachers and professors out in the community and colleges/universities — I admire your profession; as Mrs. Bush quoted Henry Adams in her speech: “A teacher affects eternity.”
