Distinguished Alumni reminds graduates they possess many gifts

You see, all of you have a treasure to share and that treasure is you. It may not seem like it, but every time you share a little more than you think you have, every time you touch someone's life, you make a difference in this world," Jeffrey said.

Jeffrey, a champion for youth development and protection, serves as a juvenile court judge for the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming.

He said the gifts he received at Chadron State such as his friendship with football great Benny Francis and the quiet mentoring by people like Con Marshall transformed him into a man.

In the spirit of mentorship, he offered advice to the graduates regarding the gifts they can offer the world.

“First, wipe away your ugly eyes. Although there are many obstacles that get in our way, the biggest ones are inside us,” he said.

He said these obstacles include self-doubt, criticizing others and lacking a clear vision of what we want to achieve. He encouraged the audience to wake up each day with childlike wonder, taking in the gifts through all the senses.

His second bit of advice was to take responsibility for one’s own success and be willing to take a risk. He pointed out that professional basketball star Michael Jordan missed more than 9,000 shots in his career, lost 300 games and missed the game-winning shot 26 times. However, Jordan’s willingness to take a risk led him to success.

“We want others to be responsible while we complain about what they are doing. Complaining and whining is not the equivalent of doing something,” he said.

In closing, Jeffrey told the audience that it is always important to remember they have choices and to remember that nobody is alone.

“There are times you will feel like you’re alone, but Chadron State will always be there with you. It will have a place in your heart and soul that warms you during dark times,” he said.

Graduates involved in the program included Abigail Lane of Cheyenne, Wyoming, who offered the opening moment of reflection and Conor Casey of Rapid CIty, South Dakota, who offered the closing moment of reflection. Also, Daniel Hogsett of Lamar, Nebraska, was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army during commencement.

Photos from commencement can be seen in the College Relations online gallery.