The end of May is a time for graduations and uplifting commencement speeches, and SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams addressed two promising groups of learners with words of encouragement.
On Thursday, May 28, Dr. Williams spoke to the graduating class of MYcroSchool, a charter school that creates a small learning community for students who need to get back on track to graduation through rigorous, high-tech and relationship-focused learning experiences. The students were part of a piloted group of dual enrollment students who participated in college courses at SPC as part of their program.
The graduates listened intently as President Williams imparted words of wisdom on how to overcome adversity and be persistent about achieving their goals.
“It’s not where you start, but where you finish,” Williams said. “You’re going to face many challenges, but you can push past them and achieve your greatest potential.”
Dr. Williams was also the guest speaker for Year Up Tampa Bay on Friday, May 29. This program, located at SPC’s Midtown Campus, is an intensive, one-year program for young adults, ages 18-24, which combines professional coaching, hands-on skill development and internships at some of America’s top companies.
President Williams encouraged both groups to evaluate the areas that hinder them from achieving their goals, challenging them to face those areas head-on. She used her personal story of being the first in her family to go to college and ultimately advancing her career at SPC as an example of being persistent and relentless in achieving their dreams. Despite facing many pitfalls, Williams credits her success to the support she received from family and community members who stood in the gap and became the fuel she needed to finish strong.
“There are many people who are standing in the gap for you and we want to see you succeed.”