Dear Honors College graduates!
At this point in a normal semester, I’d be looking through the convocation booklet, impressed by page after page of extraordinary achievements, intrigued by capstone subjects, and also a little sad that I’d be saying goodbye to you at Convocation. Now—just being honest here—it hurts that I didn't get to say goodbye to you yesterday. But in addition to being impressed and intrigued by all you’ve done, I’m overwhelmed with admiration for how you completed your college careers. You’ve earned more than your degrees: you’ve earned the praise and respect of all of us in the Honors College for your determination to keep this virus from slowing you down. What an incredible accomplishment!
It’s been said that the only constant thing in life is change. The world is changing faster now than it was when you arrived here, and you’re prepared for it. All of us in the Honors College have seen this in you. Alert, serious about your work, concerned about the world around you—these are the traits you bring to a world that needs them. My greatest satisfaction is telling people how good Honors College students are. Now it’s saying how strong you all are.
So stay strong. You’re not going to stop being good at what you do—that’s your nature. Strength builds as you confront each new challenge. You’re ready for it, and all of us are tremendously proud of you.
Congratulations and the very best wishes from all of us in the Honors College!
Sincerely,
Ralph Keen
