As I congratulate the entire class of 2020, I am reminded of the last stanza of a piece of poetry by Maya Angelou entitled, Still I Rise. As you read these heart felt words remember that you as a Graduate stand on the shoulders of so many, some you know and some you do not know. It took heart, commitment, intelligent and adjusting to change to accomplish this very important goal of being a College Graduate. Those same qualities and others will be required for you and your classmates to grow and meet your full potential. SAU has done an excellent job in preparing you for future success. It is now up to you to be a difference maker. Remember: The difference between Winners and Losers is simply Winners rise up every time they fail. We are expecting YOU to be a Winner and to Rise as you face new challenges and opportunities.

Still I Rise (last stanza)

Leaving behind nights of terror and fear

I rise

Into a daybreak that wondrously clear

I rise

Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,

I am the dream and the hope of the slave.

I rise

I rise

I rise

Maya Angelou

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