Doug McDaniel
Board President’s Address
Graduation –
Class
of 2007,
It
is a privilege for me to speak to you tonight.
As I have done with the previous two graduating classes, I’d like to
speak to you briefly from three perspectives…..first, as Jackson Prep graduate myself.
Second, as your potential employer
one day, and finally, as a father.
First,
as a Jackson Prep graduate myself. Sitting in this very auditorium, twenty-nine
years ago as a member of the Jackson Prep graduating class of 1978, one thought
running through my mind was that I wished I had done some things
differently. Could it be that some of
you feel the same way? For example,
maybe you could have done better academically or you could have been more
involved in co-curricular activities but just didn’t have the confidence or
motivation or maturity to try. Well, I
couldn’t have better news for you, because in about 90 days, you’ll be handed
an opportunity…..one of the few times in life you’ll be given a true “second
chance”. As a college freshman, your
slate will be clean. You will be back to
a level playing field. But this time,
you’ll have some life experience to guide you.
What a unique opportunity this is in life…a true ‘second chance’.
Second,
let me share a few thoughts as a potential employer. Just last week, I interviewed a Jackson Prep
graduate from the class of 2003 for a position with our company. In 48 short months, many of you will be right
where this graduate is, applying for your first job. So what will set you apart from other job
applicants? Let me share two areas in
particular that stand out to me when looking at an applicant’s college
resume. First, good grades….good grades demonstrate that you take seriously the
task at hand. The good news, and I tell
you this from personal experience, is that the education you have received from
Jackson Prep will give you a head-start in the academic arena in college,
whether you are a National Merit Finalist or have been a solid ‘C’ student.
So,
in addition to good grades, what else might your potential employer look for on
your resume? LEADERSHIP. It doesn’t matter if it is a leadership
position in an honor society, student government, campus ministry, sorority,
fraternity. Employers are looking for
leaders…people who will embrace the mission of the company, the clinic, the
firm, whatever the institution may be,
and help take it to the next level….not people who simply show up, do
what they are told, and go home. So
remember, good grades and leadership, these are two accomplishments that will
help set you apart in your quest for employment.
And finally, a little fatherly advice. Having sat where your parents and
grandparents sit tonight, I’m reminded of how they feel at this moment. They’ve done what they can do. They’ve invested countless hours, tens of
thousands of dollars, and an immeasurable amount of emotional energy in to your
life, in hopes that you will take the ball and run with it. They are and will remain your biggest
fans. And now, it’s your turn. But you don’t have to run alone. My favorite
definition of parenting is the act of gradually releasing your child’s hand and
placing it into the hand of God. No,
Class of 2007, you are not alone.
So,
make us proud. Take advantage of the
“second chance” you’ll be given in 90 days.
Strive for excellence in your grades and look for leadership
opportunities. Capitalize on all that
your parents, grandparents, and teachers have poured into your first 18 years
of life. And do all of this holding tightly to the hand of God.
May
God bless the Class of 2007.