Leaving a Legacy: Commencement 2024
In an inspiring 2024 Commencement keynote speech, Governors State University’s (GovState) Chair of Education and Leadership Marlon Cummings encouraged nearly 1,100 graduates to find their passion, embrace the journey, and leave a legacy for coming generations.
Dr. Cummings, draped in formal academic regalia, was one of several speakers to address the graduates gathered at the Tinley Park
Convention Center, and issued the challenge: “Change narratives and break barriers, but above all follow your heart to find your legacy.”
In the University’s 55th year, graduates from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the College of Business (COB) received degrees at a morning ceremony, while those from the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) and the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) celebrated in an afternoon ceremony.
Tony Labriola, Master of Ceremonies and Professor Emeritus presided over the ceremonies where emotions and energy ran high. A few elated students adorned their gowns or hats with colors or words in support of charitable and political causes. A few graduates displayed flags representing their passions as they crossed the stage; others leaned in for selfies with President Cheryl Green. There was a mother-son graduating together, as well as two sisters.
Singers paid homage to the nation and African American heritage in both services with soaring renditions of the National Anthem and Lift Every Voice and Sing, also known as the Black National Anthem.
In all, it was a day of joy and jubilance punctuated with elegant pomp and circumstance.
Faculty Senate President Stephen Wagner led the procession ritual to the stage. Once the platform party of faculty and leadership were seated, speakers took to the podium and weaved in celebratory themes of embracing journeys and leaving legacies.
In the morning, graduate Brian Skibinski, delivered the student Commencement speech. “No one who ever changed the game did so by being reasonable. Class of 2024, we have an opportunity, no maybe it is a responsibility to use our passions to leave a legacy.” Skibinski earned a master’s in Information Technology.
Passionate about University strides, Dr. Green recounted the University’s many successes this past year—the groundbreaking for the Social Justice Initiative, a new Honors College and College of Graduate Studies; the opening of a Latinx Center; the reaccreditation of programs; and the addition of the first Black Greek-lettered sorority on campus, Upsilon Rho Chapter – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She reminded graduates of their own power to make change.
“You have all demonstrated the courage, perseverance, and adaptability necessary to succeed. These qualities will serve you well as you navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As you move forward, continue to embrace the power of lifelong learning, and use your education to create positive change. Your legacy will be defined by the choices you make, the actions you take, and the lives you touch.”
Provost Beverly Schneller formally presented candidates to receive degrees from Dr. Green, but first she underscored their importance to the
University. “Because of you we have the opportunity to do what we believe in most. You are our legacy. You are who we get up for every day.”
In the afternoon, Alumna Toya Garnes (‘08) congratulated graduates and welcomed them into the Alumni Association where they have earned connection with more than 60,000 alumni. Garnes co-chairs the University Alumni Relations Board with Cristy Gallegos ('15, '18), who spoke at the morning ceremony, and echoed her sentiments. “On behalf of generations of alumni, I enthusiastically welcome you. Welcome to the club.”
The desire to join with other helpers is what inspired graduate Leslye Williams, a Community Health major and non-traditional first-
generation student, to come to GovState. “Jaguars, the world awaits our passion, our brilliance, and our boundless potential to change lives – for the better. I have no doubt that we will make our mark on history, and in fact leave a rich legacy for generations to come.” Williams said.
Before ceremoniously moving their black-and-white tassels from the right side of their caps to the left, graduates received high praise from Angela Sebastian, Chair of the Governors State University Board of Trustees, and GovState alumna.
“The mission of GovState is to offer an exceptional and accessible education that prepares students with the knowledge skills and confidence to succeed in a global society,” Sebastian continued. “Each of you graduating today represents the successful implementation of the GovState mission. Your success is our success. Mission accomplished today.”