At the close of her Commencement address, Dr. W. Joye Hardiman encouraged graduates to take responsibility and hold up their piece of the sky. This message was accompanied by everyone in the audience raising their arms with open palms, pushing them skyward. Symbolically, it was an emotional moment to see everyone holding up the sky. When the students exited the ceremony through the reception line, many of them gestured to Dr. Hardiman with their arms raised, suggesting they continue to hold up the sky. The illustration conveyed a positive message that we can take with us in the true spirit of new beginnings or the essence of commencement.
When graduates met family and friends on the lawn outside of the arena, I noticed them holding high their diplomas for another photo opportunity. The celebration was joyful. In their hearts, they will indeed hold high their learning experience just as we hold them in high esteem for their academic accomplishment.
Dr. Hardiman also spoke about truth. Let’s all try to visualize a world where truth prevails and where we seek to keep our commitments to promoting goodwill. Take time to hold up your portion of the sky. Extend yourself to help a stranger, or volunteer in a community service agency. Be the one to stand up and take on a noble project or better yet to lead the change effort. Congratulations to our graduates. We will always hold you high in gratitude for allowing us to share wisdom through the college experience.
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