Reflections on UCA's Class of 2021--The first graduates!

These pictures tell the story. The first picture is at the campus opening (with students from both campuses together then) and the second is the current Naryn group now. Though only five years have passed, in many ways it is a lifetime ago. Just look at the faces, which back then, seemed a bit unsure, and still carried the remnants of childhood.  These remnants have completely disappeared and now we see men and women who are ready to go out into the world in full confidence, filled with knowledge, wisdom, and strength.

I have never been more proud of a group of students than I am of the UCA Class of 2021.  They have had to endure more challenges than any students I have ever been associated with: the growing pains of a brand new university, community hostility directed against them, a hepatitis outbreak, personal tragedies, and now the effects of a terrible pandemic which so disrupted the final stage of their UCA lives (just to name a few). But they have done more than endure:  they have thrived and been resilient through it all.  They have accomplished so much and have grown into remarkable women and men. 
 
Perhaps the greatest joy of my professional career has been the honor of working with and getting to know these fun and amazing students. The laughter and joy we shared together will always be a precious memory I will cherish. I am truly saddened that I cannot be there tomorrow to share your great day of graduation with you in person, but please know that I will be watching online and will be there in full spirit. And while I am enjoying my new work in Indonesia, there is an empty place in my heart that came from leaving all of you that still remains to this day unfilled.

As you leave the Giant Yellow Spaceship, may I wish all of you the greatest possible success in your lives.  May you be blessed with peace and joy and full health. Sending love and hugs and congratulations from across the ocean and over the mountains. Happy Graduation!






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