The Chicago Defender’s own Executive Director of Finance, Carol E. Bell, delivered the convocation address for East-West University’s Class of 2011 and imparted “practical approaches” to life for the graduates.
“It
is perhaps an understatement for me to say how honored and awestruck I am to be
East-West University’s keynote speaker,” Bell told the crowd after
acknowledging she follows in the footsteps of the late Mayor Harold Washington,
Dr. Margaret Burroughs and John H. Stroger Jr., all former East-West University
graduation keynote speakers.
Bell
said she was once in the same position as the graduates and had a detailed
outline for her career.
“I
was going to work for one of the most influential accounting firms worldwide,
become a partner in that firm, and a millionaire by the age of 30,” she said,
adding the timeline didn’t go according to her plan. Over time, her goals and
aspirations changed.
Bell
stressed that that may also be the case for some of them but to not stray away
from their passions.
She
asked students to take three “practical approaches” to life –– exposure, good
decisions and finishing what they start.
“Exposure
is your window to opportunity in life,” said Bell.
Being
exposed to new surroundings can create more opportunities for them and can also
open their eyes to the world, she said.
“Your
destiny speaks to where you’re going to end up in life. Your decisions are
going to get you there,” said Bell.
Decisions
are directly correlated to their destinies and urged the students to make sure
they stay on track, make the right decisions, so they can end up where they
want to go.
Finally,
she said the feeling of completion is necessary in building their character.
“Finishing
gives you an irrefutable and priceless reputation. People look at you as
honorable, dependable and trustworthy. Know yourself, be true to yourself and
engage your whole self in everything you do,” she said to a standing ovation.
“Carol
gave an inspiring speech filled with many personal keys to success and
suggestion to the graduates for living a happy and productive life,” said
Michael A. House, president of the Chicago Defender.
Graduation
attendees Cassandra Early and Gabriel Chavez echoed House’s sentiments.
“I
thought it was an excellent message. She gave the students something to think
about,” said Early.
“Her
speech was very inspirational,” said Chavez.
Copyright
2011 Chicago Defender
