Commencement

Address - James Madison University Written and Presented by: Russell P. Reeder @russreeder

Achieving Success
Welcome Senator Warner, Dr. Carrier, distinguished guests, parents, friends, faculty, and the graduating class of May 1994. My fellow classmates, now that we are graduating, we have many new adventures to look forward to. Some of you will further your education in graduate school, others will begin various careers, and many will continue to search for that perfect job. Although we are a diverse group with differing interests and our own unique experiences, we all have one thing in common: we are soon to be graduates of James Madison University! As we move on to a new chapter in our lives, we will carry with us the memories of our college years. I am sure you would all agree that our view of ourselves and the world around us has changed drastically since our freshman year. Although we were never offered the course SUCCESS 101, without even realizing, we have gained invaluable wisdom and knowledge about surviving and, more importantly, succeeding in the world today. This morning, I would like to address what I believe to be some of those key ingredients for achieving success that we have acquired through our education here at James Madison University. I would like to begin by saying that there is no ONE definition of success. Success is defined in a unique way for each of us. As long as you strive to accomplish something you truly believe in, you will discover your own sense of achievement. The first component is to believe in yourself. People may say that you are like any other average graduate out there, but dont listen to them. You are not like everyone else! Average is not what we are as graduates of James Madison University. We must strive to reach our potential as high-achievers, surpassing typical expectations. Sometimes it will seem easier to follow the group than to explore unfamiliar territory. However, we are approaching the twenty-first century, and in todays world you have to be willing to step out of your paradigms. You must be able to think about things you never thought about before. I am not talking about recreating the wheel, but making that wheel roll faster. So, no matter what path you choose in life, do not settle for being average. Trust in your strengths and beliefs and dont be afraid to start your own trends. The second necessary ingredient to achieving your success is persistence. Two years ago my grandfather gave me a quote from Calvin Coolidge, and Ive kept it in my wallet ever since. Coolidge says:

Persistence! Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. Coolidge recognizes that no matter what degree of talent, intelligence, or ability you possess, they are useless without ambition. So, if what you are trying does not work the first time, try again, and maybe try it a different way next time. Be careful not to fall into the trap of simply sitting back waiting for success to come to you. In this day and age, it takes innovation, drive, and high aspirations to achieve in any endeavor. You must be willing to take the risks necessary to create your own destiny. While I agree with Calvin Coolidge that persistence and determination are important elements in success, he leaves one thing unsaid. In order for persistence and determination to have any value, you must also have goals. This is the third component for achieving your success. No matter what your path in life, you must know where you are now and where you are going. While in college, your goals may have been to improve your G.P.A. or attend all of your classes, but now we must begin to set goals on a grander scale. If you believe in yourself, then all things are possible. Set goals that will push both your mind and soul to their limits. If you do not have goals, what do you have to be persistent and determined for? I believe that our years at James Madison have given us valuable insight into the necessary components for achieving all that we set out to accomplish. So, dont settle for mediocrity, but step ahead of the crowd and make a difference. We can continue to represent the ideals of James Madison University long after we leave here today by pushing ourselves to the limit and by being strong role models within our community. I feel there is truth in the saying, You cannot discover new oceans, unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore. Our shore is this university, and the new oceans are the unexplored realms of our future. Find the courage to set your sails in any direction that you choose, knowing that with a strong faith in yourself, persistence in all that you do, and an established set of goals, you will be able to accomplish anything that you choose. Fellow classmates, congratulations on your graduation today! Thank you and good luck!