Harms speaks at CSC commencement

Pointing to the faculty that was decked out in it academic regalia and sitting across the aisle from the approximately 140 graduate who were in attendance, Harms said the professors had “given you their best while you were here, now they want you to give it your best when you leave so you will make them proud.”

“You have completed a rigorous program and leave with the knowledge, skills and perseverance to be successful,” said Harms. “You have proven you can be successful. Set goals and reach for those goals. Have a dream and live that dream. Most of all, don’t give up.”

Harms also urged the graduates to be creative and accept new challenges and responsibilities. Quoting Robert Frost, the speaker said it is often best to take the path less traveled, to accept changes and take risks.

Harms, who is a CSC graduate and served 30 years as president of Western Nebraska Community College at Scottsbluff, told the new graduates they must be life-long learners and continue to grow intellectually to be successful. He also urged them to be honest and upright individuals. Those who are trustworthy will be given greater responsibilities and will have the greatest impact on the future of the country and the world, he stated.

The speaker also urged them to reach out and help others. Quoting Winston Churchill, Harms said a person makes a living with what he gets, and makes a life by what he gives.

Harms is also embarking on a new period in his life. He was elected to the Nebraska Legislature from the 48th District this fall and will begin his new duties in January.

Before he spoke, Harms was presented Chadron State’s Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree. Dr. Janie Park, president of CSC, said the degree is given to those who have made an extraordinary contribution to humanity. Park called Harms “one of the best known people in western Nebraska.”

 

See also:

CSC to graduate 165 on Friday

John Harms to speak at Chadron State commencement