I am greatly honored to stand here before these resilient graduates of 2020 and 2021. After two years, here we are, physically present to celebrate the success of these graduates. Delays are the beautiful languages of opportunities. Difficult times such as the COVID-19 pandemic was an opportunity to learn and master persistence and resilience. As I stand here before you, I feel the indescribable energy of success and the sense of excitement of everyone. COVID-19 is still a threat this time but not as the way we perceived it during its first wave. It is important to always remember that when times get tough, persevere, exude resilience.

Delivered during the President's Tribute to the Graduates on August 10, 2022 at the VSU Gym.