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North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University held its graduate student ceremony Friday, May 10, at 9 a.m. in the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts.
Ending his 15-year tenure as chancellor of the university, Chancellor Dr. Harold L. Martin said, “Throughout the years I’ve been a part of numerous graduate ceremonies, yet this one holds special significance as my final one as chancellor of this esteemed institution. It’s a privilege that I deeply appreciate and respect. Thank you so very much for an incredible 15 years.”
Martin told graduates to go into the world with persistence and confidence.
“Today is a momentous occasion for all of you. It symbolizes the fruits of your unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and perseverance throughout the academic year. Reaching this momentous occasion has required intentional efforts, which has enabled you to achieve this significant milestone,” he said. “You’re ready for what lies ahead. You are an Aggie. Always doing and never done.”
Tia Pope, president of the Graduate Student Association told graduates that getting through all the challenges and sacrifices, means they are prepared to go into the world and do great things, and to embrace the long-reaching bond of other Aggie graduates across the globe.
“As we gather here today to celebrate your achievements, it’s central to recognize that although this chapter may be closing, your journey is certainly just beginning,” she said. “Aggie Pride isn’t merely a slogan. But a testament to the strong sense of community and the support that defines this institution.”
Before conferring more than more than 200 master’s and almost 60 doctoral degrees at the ceremony, keynote speaker Stephanie G. Adams ’89, Ph.D., the fifth dean of the University of Texas at Dallas Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, bestowed her remarks to graduates.
“Please allow me just a minute to take all of this in. I was going to pull out my phone and take a selfie, but that just did not seem dignified enough for the occasion,” said Adams. “Because you see, three decades ago, I quietly whispered a little prayer to the universe – not really a prayer, maybe just a thought or a wish – that one day I might return to my alma mater as a commencement speaker. Today is my confirmation that dreams do come true.”
Adams is an honors graduate of N.C. A&T where she received her B.S. in mechanical engineering. She was awarded an ME in systems engineering in 1991 from the University of Virginia and a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary engineering in 1998 from Texas A&M University, where she concentrated on industrial engineering and management.
“To our graduates, the first thing I encourage you to do when you leave today is to thank those who have supported, encouraged, nurtured, mentored, guided and protected you during this part of your life’s journey,” she said.
She is past president and Fellow of the American Society of Engineering Education and member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Board of Directors, in addition to holding membership in other professional organizations. In 2003, Adams received the CAREER award from the Engineering Education and Centers Division of the National Science Foundation as a leader in the advancement and inclusion of all in STEM education, in addition to many other professional honors.
However, Adams shared that those accolades did not come easily. She recounted her struggles with standardized testing, temporarily halting her pursuit of higher education on two occasions. Additionally, she grappled with skepticism from colleagues who doubted her ability to attain tenure in her initial faculty role. She gave the credit to being resilient, a trait she said all the graduates have.
“I am here today because of my resilience,” she said. “To the 2024 graduates, regardless of the path that you have traveled or the challenges that you have faced, your presence here today is a testament to your resilience.”
She continued, “You’ve achieved this milestone not only because of your intellectual talent but because in the face of life’s challenges, you stayed determined. You showed faith in yourself. You exercised self-discipline. And perhaps you made some personal sacrifices all while completing the requirements for the degree you are earning today.”
Adams ended her remarks by emphasizing to students that their degree alone doesn’t define their worth; instead, it’s their actions that truly matter. Advising them to focus not on personal accolades, but on making a positive impact on others’ lives. She highlighted the legacy of individuals like the A&T Four, underscoring their selfless dedication to improving society without seeking recognition, serving as an inspiration for future generations.
“I’ve put a spin on the words of former New York Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, who said, ‘If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.’ I say, if they give you a seat at the table, bring somebody else and a chair for them. You can provide opportunities for those on the margins or those who may not be included or chosen for reasons beyond their control. Because after all, that’s what Aggies Do.”
