Commencement
May 18, 2024
As prepared for delivery.
President Farmbry, trustees, distinguished faculty, fellow alumni, families and friends, and the remarkable Guilford College Class of 2024, it is with great pride and gratitude that I stand before you today on this momentous occasion. We gather here, reflecting on our personal Guilford stories and motivations, inspired by the time spent at Guilford College and the journey ahead. To the Class of 2024 who are wrapping up your Guilford College story, do not worry it will shape your journey for the rest of your life. Today, I want to share a deeply personal story that will further deepen your connection to Guilford College, hearing firsthand the transformative power this place truly holds.
Let me transport you back to the humble beginnings of my journey in the poorest parts of North Carolina. In a place where running water was a luxury and domestic violence cast its dark shadow daily. I experienced unimaginable adversity. But even facing these challenges, I held onto a fervent dream of escaping that environment and pursuing a college education.
My journey took a profound turn when I crossed paths with two extraordinary teachers who forever changed my life and began my belief that relationships are transformative. First, there was Ms. Coates, my third-grade teacher, whose impact on my self-esteem was genuinely transformative. In a classroom where I stood as the tallest girl, she taught me a valuable lesson – the importance of embracing and nurturing a positive self-image, regardless of societal expectations. Ms. Coates instilled the belief that my worth extended far beyond physical appearance, empowering me to hold my head high with unwavering self-esteem.
My extraordinary high school English teacher, Mr. Bush, was instrumental in my journey. Recognizing my untapped potential, he became a guiding light, igniting a fire of ambition and belief in my abilities. His support and encouragement propelled me to reach for the stars, leading to full-ride offers from esteemed institutions. As a first-generation college student, I faced unique challenges, including the lack of support from my parents, who couldn't fully comprehend the significance of my academic achievements and the desire to venture far from home. Nevertheless, fueled by the belief instilled in me by Mr. Bush, I made the resolute decision to become an Aggie at NC A&T State University. Just days after my high school graduation, I embarked on a new chapter, immersing myself in the enriching experiences and knowledge offered by this illustrious HBCU. It was at NC A&T that I gained invaluable academic and cultural insights and forged lifelong friendships.
Yet, life had other plans in store for me. During my second semester of my first year, tragedy struck. I received a devastating phone call – My heart shattered as I was told that my parents were tragically found at the scene of a brutal murder-suicide in my family home. At the tender age of 19, I found myself grappling with the trauma of domestic violence once again, shouldering the responsibility of caring for my 13-year-old brother. Darkness consumed my world, and I became a teenage mother reliant on welfare, a 20-year-old college dropout who sought solace in alcohol and drugs, lost within a maze of despair.
However, my love for education persisted within the depths of my anguish, and a flicker of resilience burned within me. Years later, I summoned the courage to return to school, and that decision led me to Guilford College and its unique Center for Continuing Education.
Guilford became my sanctuary, a beacon of hope illuminating a world that had once seemed so bleak. Within the halls of Guilford and spending many days sitting in the grass, in the beautiful quad, I experienced the transformative power of education and the values this institution wholeheartedly embraces.
Guilford College imparted to me the value of community. It provided a supportive and nurturing network that lifted me up during my lowest moments. I formed lifelong friendships and built connections with mentors who guided me along my journey. I would be remiss if I failed to acknowledge one such mentor. Sherri Giles, who has remained a source of support and was among the first to reach out when it was announced I would be speaking before you today. Sherri, thank you for everything and for helping me discover the true meaning of belonging. Guilford College showed me that we are never alone on this path and are part of something greater than ourselves.
Diversity became my strength at Guilford College. I had the privilege of learning from individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. It challenged me to confront my biases, embrace inclusivity, and celebrate the richness that diversity brings. Guilford College taught me that our differences make us stronger and that true understanding and growth emerge when we embrace the diverse tapestry of humanity.
Equality became my battle cry at Guilford College. It instilled in me the importance of fighting for equality and justice. It reminded me that every individual deserves a fair chance at success regardless of their background or circumstances. Several classmates and I founded a grassroots organization at Guilford College called APPLE (Advocating for People's Participation in Liberating Education). Guilford College taught me that our voices matter and possess the power to effect change. It taught me that we must never remain silent in the face of injustice.
Excellence became my pursuit at Guilford College. It propelled me to strive for greatness in every aspect of my life. It pushed me to transcend the limitations I once believed were insurmountable. Guilford College taught me that true excellence goes beyond personal success; it lies in utilizing our talents and skills to positively impact the world around us.
Integrity became my compass at Guilford College. It instilled in me the importance of honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct. It taught me that our actions must align with our values and that integrity is not just a word but a way of life. Guilford College taught me that our character is as significant as our achievements and that true success is measured by the integrity with which we attain it.
Justice became my mission at Guilford College. It fostered within me a deep sense of responsibility to advocate for a more equitable society. It reminded me of the systemic injustices that persist and the imperative to amplify the voices of the marginalized. Guilford College taught me that justice is not a passive concept but rather a call to action. It taught me that it is our duty to fight for a world that is fair and just for all.
Stewardship became my duty at Guilford College. It instilled a deep sense of responsibility towards our planet and future generations. It taught me to be mindful of our impact on the environment and to be custodians of the world we inhabit. Guilford College taught me that we are not mere inhabitants of this Earth but entrusted stewards tasked with preserving it for future generations.
Flash forward a few years past graduation, I now serve as the President and CEO of a local education nonprofit, shift_ed, where our mission is to boldly accelerate student potential. The values instilled in me at Guilford College guide and impact my daily work, I have no doubt that these same values will profoundly influence every one of you as you embark on the next chapter of your life.
Graduates, as you stand here today, you embody the very essence of the values Guilford College has instilled within us. As alumni of this esteemed institution, we carry a legacy that champions community, diversity, equality, excellence, integrity, justice, and stewardship. These values will guide you as you traverse the path before you, propelling you toward becoming extraordinary servant leaders.
As you venture into the world, hold these values close to your heart. Let the lessons you have learned at Guilford College illuminate your path. Be beacons of hope, embracing and uplifting those around you. Champion equality and justice, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Strive for excellence, not only for personal gain but for the betterment of society. Uphold integrity in all your endeavors, knowing that your character holds equal importance to your achievements. Be stewards of our planet, working tirelessly to create a sustainable and flourishing world.
To the Guilford College Class of 2024, I say with the utmost conviction that you are destined for greatness, just as the classes that have come before you. You are intrinsically connected to a boundless legacy. Challenges and adversity may have marked your journeys; through those experiences, you have gained immeasurable strength and resilience. You possess the power to make a difference, to leave an indelible mark on the world. Guilford College has prepared you for this very moment, and now it is up to you to seize it.
In closing, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to come home and stand before you today as your commencement speaker. Guilford College holds a special place in my heart, and its presence is a testament to its transformative power. Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you on this momentous occasion.
Congratulations, Guilford College Class of 2024! May your passion, resilience, and commitment to making a difference forever transform the world. May your paths be illuminated by an unyielding determination and boundless success.