---

Kentucky State University welcomed over 250 students as alumni at today’s Commencement Convocation. Graduates represented 21 states, one territory, and three foreign countries.

Kentucky Senate Minority Floor Leader Senator Gerald A. Neal delivered the Commencement address asking graduates, “When you look at the blank slate ahead, how will you shape your future?”

“Among you are future nurses, social workers, business leaders, teachers, scientists, engineers, doctors, attorneys, activists and many other professions,” Senator Neal said. “Regardless of the path you choose, you’ve already taken the vital steps towards building a successful career. There are few achievements more powerful, more transformational, that what you’ve accomplished so far.”

Senator Neal challenged the Class of 2023 to remain intentional about their objectives and be prepared for the trials ahead.

“Remember, failure is often the first step towards success and setbacks and sufferings are inevitable,” he began. “In fact, they are one of the few certainties of human existence. But both failure and success are not the objectives; they are merely useful experiences to setup the next step, the next opportunity, the next challenge in reaching multiple goals as you go forward.”

He encouraged graduates to remember the power of gratitude and to thank those who helped them reach this milestone.

“Just as you have pushed yourself and sacrificed for your degree, many others have been striving and sacrificing on your behalf,” Senator Neal expressed. “Your parents and those significant in your life have spent many years in the trenches waking up early, staying up late, and perhaps working jobs they didn’t like, investing an untold amount of time and emotional capital to ensure you have a bright future. Don’t miss the opportunity to thank them.”

Business Administration major Collier Higgs delivered the valedictorian address and offered his personal struggles and triumphs as encouragement.

“When my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, it rocked my world to its core,” he shared emotionally. “Her diagnosis showed me what a real fight is, what life is about, and that you never give up no matter what life throws at you.”

Higgs said that his mom encouraged him to stay the course and not give up.

“She knew that my heart was at home with her, but my mom saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. She gave me the courage to continue school,” he shared. “She always said that if she had to fight, then I needed to fight also. That is what we all must do. Nothing can stop us from being our best.”

Interim President Ronald A. Johnson offered graduates three simply rules to guide their journey after Kentucky State.

“Focus on remaining competitive by becoming a lifelong learner. Do not stay where you are; recognize that you have to commit to learning new things,” he shared. Adding secondly that, “one of the most important assets you have is your name and, particularly, integrity. If you tie integrity to your purpose you will be able to soar throughout your career.” Finally, he encouraged graduates to give back to their alma mater.

“I take my hat off for your accomplishment, applaud your success, and look forward to hearing how you are going to change the world and make a difference in the lives of others.”