'You found a way'
"Your achievements are the combined result of what happens when you have the audacity to dream big; and when you harness the discipline to set goals – of all sizes and with varying timelines – and remain focused on achieving them." – President George Timmons
Editors note: President George Timmons offered the following remarks to the class of 2024 during his first HCC Commencement ceremony on June 1.
'Graduates, it is a joy to stand before you today and offer congratulations for all you have achieved that brings you to this moment. You have earned your college degree.
I want to be clear in stating that you have earned the degree or certificate for which you are present today. You are not simply receiving it as a gift. It was not granted to you because of your charm or sense of humor. No one owed you a favor and said, "You know, I think I'll give them a college degree..."
It was earned. By you and you alone. You put in the work, and we are here today to celebrate you. Your achievements are the combined result of what happens when you have the audacity to dream big; and when you harness the discipline to set goals – of all sizes and with varying timelines – and remain focused on achieving them.
But dreams and goals did not change the fact that, over the course of your journey at Holyoke Community College, there were some uphill battles. The obstacles you faced in the pursuit of your degree may have sometimes felt insurmountable. Yet, you found a way forward.
I imagine that your forward progress was thanks in part to the friends, family, faculty, staff, scholarship donors, co-workers, and community members present today.
Graduates, please rise and join me in a round of applause for all those who have supported you.
Members of the class of 2024, dreaming big and setting goals does not end when you walk across the stage today. By definition, "Commencement" signifies "beginning," or the start of something ...
Today, you will begin to chart a new path. You will do so with lessons learned from your time at Holyoke Community College. There will, no doubt, be more obstacles along your journey. But I have absolute confidence that you will meet them with the resilience, passion, and drive you developed while at HCC.
The commencement we celebrate today also signifies the start of your new relationship with Holyoke Community College. This morning, you will hear from alumni whose relationship with HCC has only deepened since their time in the classroom, and that is my hope for each of you as well, that you will reflect on the transformational experience you had Holyoke Community College and consider the people and opportunities that helped shape who you are today.
You are a better writer, a critical thinker, an engaging presenter, inspiring artist, compassionate caregiver, and creative problem-solver because of your time at Holyoke Community College. You have added new layers to your identity. Chief among them: college graduate, and HCC alum.
May your experiences at Holyoke Community College guide you along a path to greatness, and may you never forget where it all started.
Part of what drew me to Holyoke Community College were our shared values of innovation, collaboration, kindness, inclusion, and trust. These values unite our community and guide all that we do.
So, if I might offer you one final assignment before you cross the stage today:
The good news is – there is no deadline for this assignment.
I just ask that you practice the following each day:
• Lead with empathy and seek to understand;
• Respect the uniqueness of every individual;
• Take risks, be flexible, and learn from your mistakes;
• Assume good will. Be honest with yourself and with others;
• And don't go it alone. Bring others together in pursuit of goals and the common good.
When we share these values, anything is possible.
Congratulations, Holyoke Community College class of 2024!"
PHOTO: President George Timmons speaks to graduates at Commencement
