Monday, July 25, 2011

Celebrating Academic Achievement

I am honored from time to time by the ITT Technical Institute of Wilmington, by being given the opportunity to participate in the school's graduation ceremonies as a speaker. Hearing the stories of commitment and personal dedication that have earned students degrees in such disciplines as information technology, business, criminal justice and nursing is always inspiring, and I appreciate the transformation of the dreams for the future into the ability to realize those dreams through education.

Often students graduating from ITT have travelled a non-traditional path, pursuing their studies as the result of a career change or an education career that had been earlier disrupted by a variety of circumstances. Their spirit and perseverance are exemplary.

Most recently I was the keynote speaker at ITT's graduation ceremony on July 7th. Following my remarks I was surprised and enthused to receive a commemorative plaque from Campus Director Dr. Nadine Dowling. A photo of the occasion is posted below.