August 6, 2023

 

“Families and supporters, esteemed faculty and staff, and most importantly, our new freshman class.

Welcome to this momentous occasion, Stone of Hope ceremony for our bright and promising young students entering this esteemed university. Today marks the beginning of an incredible journey, a journey filled with opportunities, challenges, growth, and success.

To our new freshmen, I extend my warmest congratulations. You have embarked on a path that will shape not only your future but also the future of Saint Augustine’s University and of our society. As you step foot on this campus, you are not just students; you are the architects of your destiny, you are Saint Augustine’s University Falcons and the world awaits your impact.

This university stands as a bastion of knowledge, innovation, and inclusivity. Here at Saint Augustine’s University, you will encounter a diverse community of thinkers, dreamers, and doers – individuals who will inspire and challenge you to reach new heights. Embrace this environment with and open mind and open arms, as the friendships and connections you forge here will stay with you for a lifetime.

I encourage each of you to seize every opportunity that comes your way. Engage in clubs, internships, and organizations that resonate with your passions, for these extracurricular experiences will shape you just as much as your academics. Attend lectures, workshops, and conferences outside your comfort zone, for it is at the edge –where you stretch your understanding where true growth occurs.

Yet, I recognize that along with opportunities, you may face challenges. The pursuit of knowledge and personal growth is not always easy, but it is within those moments of challenge that you find your true strength.

Embrace these challenges with resilience and determination, for overcoming them will make your success even more rewarding.

As you embark on this exciting first year, remember that learning is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. Embrace the city around you—get to know Raleigh and North Carolina, explore its culture, and engage with its people. Let this vibrant community be your inspiration and guide as you navigate your educational journey.

I wish each and every one of you a year filled with adventure, self-discovery, and accomplishments. Your passion and determination have brought you here, and it is my sincerest wish that you continue to foster those qualities throughout your time at this university.

May you walk these grounds with curiosity, may you lead with compassion, and may you dream without limits. Remember, you are not just the future; you are the future leaders, thinkers, and change makers. Embrace this opportunity, make the most of it, and make us all proud.

Congratulations once again, and welcome to the start of something extraordinary. Falcons are not ordinary birds!”