I was proud to speak to our newly minted graduates as the keynote speaker for the VCU L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.
I encourage you to watch the full speech on our YouTube channel
These talented and accomplished students are well-prepared for success. Having combined academic theory with real-world experience, they stand poised to find solutions to the greatest challenges facing the people of their communities.
This success would not be possible without the dedicated leadership of the Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden. She is a transformative leader who continues to support and provide a plethora of opportunities for our students. Along with the distinguished faculty and dedicated staff, Dean Gooden has enhanced scholarly research, internships, scholarships, holistic student advising, communications outreach, alumni engagement, community partnerships and much more.
Her dedication and determination exemplify what true leadership can accomplish.
I called on our new graduates to adapt to leadership like this and commit to serving others. They have the capacity to lead, no matter their varied career paths. Leadership is in short supply, and I am hopeful that our graduates will commit to demand what is right and criticize what is wrong.
Witnessing the passion and fervor of our graduates as they crossed the stage reaffirmed my belief that the Wilder School is a beacon of hope and impact for so many.
Stay tuned.
