Tawnya Rizzotto

Fall 2024 Student Speaker

Good evening, everyone.

First and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our professors. Your dedication, guidance, and support have played a pivotal role in shaping us into the graduates we are today. The knowledge you've shared, the challenges you've helped us navigate, and the inspiration you've provided will stay with us as we move forward into the next chapter of our lives.

I think I can speak for all of us and say we are deeply grateful for all the ways you've helped us grow academically. I would also like to extend a special thank you to all of the parents and families whose love, encouragement, and sacrifices have been a constant source of strength throughout our lives, and to the family members, my family members, you know who you are, I appreciate you very much.

It is such a privilege to address you all today as we celebrate this incredible milestone. As I reflect on how far I've come, I'm reminded of the moments and places that have shaped me. One place that has always been special to me is the library, so no wonder I want to become a librarian. The library has been one of my favorite places, a quiet, peaceful space where I could focus, discover new things and get inspired by books.

When I was young, one of the books that truly shaped my love for reading was The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. I remember reading it for the first time, drawn in by the story of four siblings who enter a magical world through a wardrobe closet while playing hide and seek, but what struck me -- but struck me the most was the deeper spiritual symbolism woven throughout the story. The Lion, Aslan, was not just a majestic creature. He represented something far greater. It helped me to understand how stories, whether through fiction or not, can teach us lessons about love, sacrifice, and the power of faith. Aslan's willingness to lay down his life for the sake of others helped me understand the true meaning of love and selflessness. Through this story, I learned that the most powerful stories speak to our hearts. They challenge us and call us to reflect on the deeper meaning of life.

But this journey for me was not easy. There were many challenges along the way, working full time, raising a family, and even facing illness. It did it not only to create better opportunities for myself, but also to provide a better life for my children. I wanted to show my daughters that it's never too late to follow your dreams. So no matter how many obstacles stand in your way, I wanted to be an example for them, and the example that it's never too late to pursue education, take risks, and reach for something bigger. Today I stand before you as proof that with hard work, dedication, and the support of those who we love, anything is possible.

I want to take a moment to congratulate my fellow graduates, especially my peers who have shown incredible dedication, hard work, and perseverance throughout this journey. You have all faced every challenge with determination and grace, never allowing obstacles to stand in your way. Earning this degree is a testament to your strength and your steadfast commitment to your goals. You've proven that no dream is too big and no goal is unattainable with hard work and persistence.

As we move forward in the next chapter of our lives, I want to share a quote from the song "Defying Gravity," which is from Wicked, that inspires me, and it may inspire you as well.

Unlimited, together we're unlimited. Together we'll be the greatest team there's ever been. Dreams, the way we planned them, if we work in tandem, there's no fight we cannot win. So if you care to find me, look to the western sky. As someone told me lately, everyone deserves the chance to fly.

You've earned your chance to fly, and I do not doubt that you will soar to new heights in everything you do.

Congratulations once again.

Thank you.