The class of 2025 at Kentucky State University officially joined the ranks of their fellow Thorobreds recently during the 2021 Freshman Confirmation Assembly. 

The program, delayed by the pandemic, is designed to celebrate incoming new students and introduce them to their new Kentucky State family. 

President Stamps challenged the new Thorobreds to stay the course and graduate.

“Thorobreds realize that they can win within. They believe in their inner strength to stay the course no matter what,” President Stamps said. “I believe in each of you. Your Kentucky State University family believes in you. This is your race to win. It is your race to run. You are a champion. Now race onward and upward toward your greatest potential.”

Kentucky State University Provost Dr. Leroy Hamilton Jr. said Thorobreds are expected to be spirited and bold, yet passionate about learning and passionate about helping others to learn.

“Your call to action today is to see it through,” Hamilton said.   

Interim Vice President for Brand Identity and University Relations Tanya Carr reflected on the legacy of Kentucky State. 

“By starting your college career at Kentucky State, you are following in the footsteps of these Thorobreds and countless others who have made a lasting impact on this world,” Carr said. “You are now part of the Thorobred family – a family committed to your success, and a community dedicated to empowering you to change the world.”

Kentucky State University alumna and lifetime member of the National Alumni Association JoAnn James provided the charge to new Thorobreds.  

“Education is the most powerful weapon you can have today,” James said. “Don’t allow failure to tell you what you will become. Failure are lessons learned to make it work in our favor.”

James said she came from a small town in Kentucky and Kentucky State helped her become who she is today. 

“I am a proud alumni of Kentucky State, retired at age of 55,” James said. “Don’t tell me a K-State diploma can’t make it happen. After I handled my business, I was able to write a check and have money to give back for scholarships for students.”

Your destination, James told the students, is graduation. 

Courtney Campbell provided two musical selections and SGA President Jason Robinson led the new Thorobreds in singing the Alma Mater.