Accomplishment recognized…
Commencement is a time of reflection on the past, celebration of the present, and anticipation of the future. This past week we had the privilege of recognizing 95 graduates at our 6th Annual Winter Commencement Exercises. The experiences of our graduates have been shaped by numerous people, programs and opportunities throughout their time at VCSU.
Faculty, staff, coaches, peers and community members have all played an important and formative role along the way. The faculty and staff at VCSU represent an outstanding collection of professionals who enhance the campus experience and give so much to our campus and community as teachers, mentors, friends and advisors.
The support of family and friends has also played a key role in student success. We acknowledge the encouragement from parents, grandparents, siblings, spouses, significant others, extended family members and friends for providing this base of support.
Of all the memories our graduates hold dear from the past four years, one thing is certain: none of them could have anticipated the advent and impact of Covid-19 during the final weeks of last Spring and the Fall 2020 semesters. Yet they met all of the associated challenges of this pandemic head on with resolve, successfully navigating this time together. This special group of graduates contributed so much to the culture and success of our university. They were leaders in and out of the classroom and we will miss their presence on our campus.
Challenges aside, I am an optimist at heart. One of the quotes I left with our graduates was from Nelson Mandela’s 1994 autobiography, “Long Walk to Freedom”, where he writes, “Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun and one’s feet moving forward.” As we’ve all continued to navigate these past challenging months, it has been important for us all to keep moving forward and focus on the positive, even when it wasn’t always readily apparent.
I am fortunate to be a part of this outstanding university, having assumed my role as President almost two years ago to the day of this commencement. One of the moments I hold with highest regard is the opportunity to congratulate our graduates, shake their hands as they receive their diploma, and have the opportunity to visit with their proud family members.
Even though this ceremony was held virtually, the sentiment of the face-to-face commencement remains and is strong and heartfelt. We look forward to holding our Spring 2021 commencement in person and will welcome all graduates from this winter and last spring to join us in this celebration!
Finally, on behalf of Valley City State University, we extend warmest holiday wishes to all for a safe and enjoyable holiday season! In the new year, let us resolve to continue our good work as we move forward together.
Go Vikings!