As you grow intellectually, culturally, and spiritually during your time here, make sure our university grows in the same ways. If you see a way to improve valpo, pursue it.
Kaitlyn Steinhiser ’20, Student Senate President, 2020 Opening Convocation Address
What you’re doing right now is building yourselves for greatness.
José D. Padilla, J.D., speaking to engineering students at the James Gilbeau Bioengineering Laboratory groundbreaking
In the midst of this crisis, we found that our worth was not tied to campus, but instead, that Valpo is a place worth going to because of the people it attracts. I am thankful that I had this period to reflect. It has allowed me to see that all my relationships are essential. We are going to a world that needs all of us. We need artists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, writers, doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, teachers, and visionaries. We are all essential and all have a role to play.
Eseosasere Okundaye ’20, 2020 Student Commencement Speaker
To know that I was chosen to represent the voice for the youth across this region is so amazing. I am so passionate about youth and speaking up to implement the change that we need to see so that we can take on future success in the world, so it was only God’s plan that got me here today. I am truly grateful.
Tékeidra Masters ’24, Midwest Regional Youth of the Year
We sit six feet apart, but we are not alone. We can accomplish more than we thought possible, because we are lifted up by the work and achievements of this community. We sit six feet apart, but we are not alone. We are devoted to empowering each other to become our best selves. We sit six feet apart, but we are not alone. We are neighbors in mind and heart.
Interim President-Elect Colette Irwin-Knott ’81, 2020 Opening Convocation Address
My mom always says everything happens for a reason. The Fellowship has allowed me to advocate for my community. COVID-19 disproportionately affects Black communities, and Lutheran Services in America has been so supportive of me advocating for those communities.
Lem Cartman ’22, 2020 CAPS Fellow
I am so excited and optimistic about being president of this great University, but my hope and prayer is that we constantly remember to embrace the vocation and devotion we have to each other.
José D. Padilla, J.D., speaking at a special Morning Prayer service on March 1 to mark the first day of his presidency
The clouds don’t last forever.
Ginger “Zee” Zuidgeest ’02, speaking to May 2020 graduates via video in lieu of an in-person Commencement ceremony