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One Kentucky State University graduating senior said her mentors never let her take a day off from becoming great. As a result, she walked across the stage with her classmates at the 2018 Fall Commencement Convocation.

Nashaye Sutton, an exercise science major from Benton Harbor, Michigan, said Kentucky State gave her a second chance for success at college and in life.

“I had to achieve focus within myself in order to get where I wanted to be,” Sutton said. “Success was sitting right in front of me and it was up to me to grab it.”

Sutton said becoming the first in her family to graduate college motivated her to continue pursuing her degree. Sutton put in hard work and had mentors along the way.

“Coach Fatimah Shabazz and Professor Jason Keeler both pushed me to my full potential and never let me take a day off from becoming great,” Sutton said.

After graduation, Sutton said she’s continuing her education at Campbellsville University – Harrodsburg.

Sutton said her best advice for students still working toward a degree is to never give up.

“No matter how hard any situation may be, just push through it,” Sutton said. “There may be times you want to give up on school and in life, but never give up. If you’re struggling with classes, seek help with mentors in ACE (Academic Center of Excellence).”

Sutton was involved in women’s track and field, as well as the ENVYUS dance team while at Kentucky State.