BUCKHANNON, W.Va. (WVDN) – This weekend, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) traveled to Buckhannon, W.Va. where she delivered the keynote address at West Virginia Wesleyan College’s 134th Commencement ceremony.
Additionally, Senator Capito was presented with the Rhododendron Award, a prestigious recognition provided by the College to individuals that have brought distinction and honor to their state or have offered exemplary acts of leadership on behalf of the College. Senator Capito is only the 16th individual to receive the award since its inception in 1967.
“On behalf of the graduating class, faculty, staff, and the entire West Virginia Wesleyan College community, we extend our gratitude to Senator Capito for joining with us to celebrate our graduates and providing the 134th Commencement Address,” West Virginia Wesleyan College President James Moore said. “Her words of encouragement, hope, and resiliency are inspirational and have made this commencement truly memorable. We appreciate the Senator’s friendship, her service to our state, the nation, and her continued support of higher education.”
Highlights from Senator Capito’s address, as prepared for delivery, are included below:
“I’d like to extend my sincere appreciation to: President Moore, Wesleyan College Board of Trustees, all of the incredible educators, administrators, and faculty. And, those who served as your first teachers, your parents and family members who are here today. And, since it’s Mother’s Day weekend, I want to take a minute to recognize all of the moms here.
“And graduates, what I’ve learned during my short time on Earth is that the saying, ‘life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother,’ could not be more true. As you go out into the world, I promise you there will be days when you wish you had a manual.
“Whether it’s your mother, your father, a grandparent, sibling, or friend, I urge you to pick up the phone in those moments and call that special someone. Don’t text them, call them. And, don’t be afraid to ask that person, whoever it is, for advice or for help.
“Wesleyan’s commitment to preparing the next generation of servant leaders in order to meet the needs of: West Virginia, Appalachia, and the broader community, is a mission that we need now more than ever.
“No matter how busy life may get, try your hardest to make time for your friends and family. Help carry each other’s burdens and be the kind of friend you want to have. The best way to get through this life is together.
“Devote yourself to something greater. Political leaders, business leaders, religious leaders, they are all devoted to advancing the human condition in one way or another. Recognize that there is something bigger than you and beyond you. Look up at it and don’t lose sight of it.
“I encourage you to build your life in West Virginia. No matter where you came from, no matter your pasts or your personal histories, you are all West Virginians now.”
