West Liberty University Celebrates Fall Commencement
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To the graduates of West Liberty University celebrated Saturday, Ohio County Board of Education President David Croft counseled them that hard work and luck are often close partners.
Croft, also a Wheeling attorney, was the keynote speaker for the university's fall 2021 commencement, held Saturday morning at the WLU Academic, Sports and Recreation Complex.
Croft shared the experience of a trip taken recently to Las Vegas with his 21-year-old son, that he planned as a way to share success stories and opportunities open to those who succeed.
He also explained that he's been blessed and lucky. He referred to a mantra that he learned from his attorney friend, retired Judge Jim Seibert who said, "The harder you work, the luckier you get."
He said that there are many different paths to success. He gave examples of his brother and a friend who took different paths, one climbing the corporate ladder, the other choosing entrepreneurship as a way to reach his goals after.
"All of us have achieved and enjoyed financial success. We each arrived and achieved success in different ways, however there are 10 characteristics of success that I will share," he stated.
One hundred and sixty students were expected to participate in the fall ceremony. Also honored Saturday were graduating students with the highest grade point average in each respective college, who received the honor of carrying the college banner:
– College of Business -- Brendan Adams, Martins Ferry
– College of Education & Human Performance -- Lindsey Smith, Chester
– College of Sciences -- Kamden Dulesky, Bridgeport
– College of Liberal and Creative Arts -- Lauren Anderson, Canton, Ohio
– Graduate Studies -- Evelyn Frobey, Pawleys Island, S.C.
University President W. Franklin Evans, who presided over the ceremony, concluded it by asking graduates to remember their time spent at WLU and the memories made.
"Please know that you'll truly be missed," he said. "You will not be forgotten. Be proud of your accomplishments. A degree from WLU represents a solid education and will allow you to grow, personally, professionally, and socially.
"Stay in touch with faculty, staff and classmates," he continued. "Visit the campus often. Make it a priority to support your alma mater. It is, and always will remain, a home of yours forever and ever. There is no place like home. We wish you the best in the endeavors of your life."
The commencement ceremonies can be found on TopperStation.com. for those who were unable to attend.