Commencement
May 18, 2024

As prepared for delivery.

Good morning, friends. Welcome to a celebration of the Class of 2024 – more than 200 remarkable graduates of Guilford College who have completed bachelor’s or master’s degrees in the past year. In a few minutes, graduates, you will cross this stage, one-by-one, and be recognized for your accomplishments. I want each of the graduates to know how proud we are of you at this moment, and that we offer every good wish for a life of purpose in which you will make the world a better place, kindled by your experiences at Guilford College

While this is a day to celebrate the graduates, it’s a very important day for family and friends as well. We all know that the support of our loved ones is pivotal to any personal success that we have. Mothers, fathers, guardians, grandparents, aunts, uncles, sisters, brothers and some spouses and children – whether you are present here on campus or celebrating with us online – I can sense your joy for our graduates. Also, I want to acknowledge the Guilford faculty and staff who have nurtured our students throughout their journey and are beaming with pride.

There were 368 members of the Class of 2024 when the fall semester began in 2020. You entered in a period of COVID restrictions and uncertainties in the world, our nation and here at Guilford College. You came to campus not quite knowing what to expect, and over almost two academic years you navigated new realities in your academic, social and personal lives. Thankfully, the last two years have been much closer to normal, but the challenges and lingering effects were real, and those graduating today are not only survivors of the experience, but thrivers. Congratulations.

I want to acknowledge that concluding the Guilford journey can be bittersweet for some graduates. You will say goodbye to friends and scatter to places across the country or even the globe. You will encounter the anxieties of change and of starting a career, starting new relationships, and starting all the things that are the test of life. 

Today, we lift up our incredible community including current graduates, their families, alumni and those who love and support this venerable liberal arts college that I am so proud to lead. Thanks to each of you for your part in ensuring that – like the Class of 2024 – Guilford not only survives but thrives to provide an excellent, practical and values-inspired education for future students in a world that needs Guilford now more than ever.

Now, on with the celebration.