Welcome to the fall 2025 semester
A message from GovState President Joyce C. Ester, Ph.D.
In her first convocation speech to new and returning Jaguars, President Joyce C. Ester encouraged students to embrace challenges and opportunities presented in college.
"One song can spark a moment, one flower can wake the dream. One tree can start a forest, one bird can herald spring.
One smile can begin a friendship, one handclasp lifts a soul. One star can guide a ship at sea, one word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation, one sunbeam lights a room. One candle wipes out darkness, one laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey. One word must start each prayer. One hope will rise our spirits, one touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom, one heart can know what's true, one life can make a difference. You see, it's up to you."
Greetings, Governors State University students. The poem I just read is entitled The Power of One by Ashish Ram. I chose to start with this poem because it so clearly describes my message to you. If no one has ever told you or you need further convincing, I am here to tell you that I believe in you. You are enough, you matter, you make a difference, and you belong here.
As many of you sit here as first-year students, you might be taking that first step to investigate yourself. You may have a goal of completing a degree or starting the progress of a field that you've already done. Earning a degree from Governors State University may be an item on your bucket list or the fulfillment of a promise to yourself or someone you hold dear. "
According to the 2022 Census data, approximately 38% of Americans 25 and older have completed a bachelor's degree or higher. So, you are on your way to be counted in that number. Well I know life be life-ing, and sometimes this journey may be difficult at times. I implore you to seek help at the very moment you become confused or stuck. Now waiting until the last few weeks of the semester is not the time.
This University is filled with professionals, who are hired to teach, counsel, advise, and help you. There will be many concepts presented in class that may be difficult to get, to grasp. Ask the question.
There may be some concepts that are new or presented in a manner that is different than you were taught or believe. And that's okay, too. For many the goal of education is to teach you to think critically. In order to do that, you will sometimes be introduced to concepts and ideas that are different. Contrary to what some people would suggest, education is not about indoctrinating you or telling you what to think, but we are here to teach you how to think.
It's my sincere hope that you use your time here to not only learn new things, but discover new ways that you can see things differently. Well, I'm gonna tell you a little about myself, because I'm not sure if you seen the movie or the play Kinky Boots. But one of my favorite lines from the play is this: ‘If you want to change the world, change your mind.’
This is not to suggest that everything you know and believe needs to be changed or will change, but it opens the door to the possibility that there may be a new perspective for you to explore. You all represent a special class for me, because we're actually starting on this journey together.
As the new president, I too may find myself wandering the halls lost, but I know that there's someone out there who has the answer. I too, may not know the name of the person sitting next to me, or passing in the hall. But guess what? I can still smile and say hello. And I ask that you do the same.
Like me, you've probably heard we are GovState. And as a new student, it's easy to think well that doesn't really apply to me yet, I'm new, I can't really make a difference. Let me be the first to tell you that is simply not true. I believe that everything happens for a reason. There is no accident that you are here at this moment. For some of you, your purpose and direction is clear, while others of you, you're on that path to discovery.
Well, I won't mention how many years ago, but there was a time that I sat in a seat just like this. I was a young woman from a small town on a path to a major that was chosen by my mom. I recall meeting new people every day from towns I had never heard of, people who had experiences that were different than mine.
During my four years, I changed my major three times. I found myself on academic probation during my first year. I struggled financially throughout, but I stand before you today because of the help and support of family, staff, and my community. And I bet if I were to poll the faculty and staff in the room, many of them had had similar and even more daunting journeys, but we're here.
You may have had roadblocks and you may continue to have roadblocks, but that is not the end of your story. Use the resources that you have and be an active participant in your success.
Well, I look forward to seeing you on campus, and cheering on your various successes. I look forward to greeting you again at the completion of your goal as you become Governors State University graduates and alum. Welcome to Governors State and make it a great year.