Page 11 - Kentucky State University - Onward & Upward

The Spring of Hope and Despair
I wish that I could write about how our students were together celebrating the beauty of spring on the Hill, but such is not the case. Instead, new words and phrases have entered our everyday vocabulary: atten the curve, self- isolation, and shelter-in-place. Facing a global pandemic has undoubtedly brought change and uncertainty into our lives. But let me assure you that Kentucky State University remains steadfast.
This is the time of year when I should be nalizing my graduation plans. If you think Gradchella 2019 was something, my plans for May 8, 2020, will blow your minds. We are now literally one month away from “G”-day and I have no guarantee that the moratorium on group assemblies will be lifted. We have yet to place our cap and gown orders and interstate travel is banned in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
I cannot imagine the frustration of despair of getting to your senior year and having the spring semester robbed from you by a health pandemic. The emotions are no doubt raw and agonizing. When do I place my senior orders? Do I need to send out invitations? Will the campus con rm the date and time soon? Will I be forced to wait until December like other schools? NO – the Spring 2020 commencement will not be combined with the December 2020 class. Kentucky State University must give our Spring 2020 class the graduation they earned with even more surprises than originally planned.
When I’m in the drive-through and get pulled to the side for a delay, I expect a free apple pie, an extra bag of fries or something. After suffering multiple presidents, administrative turnover, campus unrest and COVID-19, it seems only fair that an extra-special celebration will be required to honor the Spring 2020 graduating class.
My hope springs eternal that good things come to those who wait. We must never forget that it is not what happens to us that de nes us, but rather how we respond
to what happens to us. We will remain exible and adjust to the situation. We must be patient with each other and understand that each of us is in uncharted territory.
Final Thoughts
As we walk through this unprecedented season in the history of the world, we must remember who we are.
ONTHEHILL
We are a “Thoro” people of a pure “Bred” spirit. We are Thorobreds. We are Kentucky State University.
Despite the challenges associated with the COVID-19 outbreak, I have never been more excited for the future of our great University. As we have made dif cult decisions for the sake of our health, safety, and viability, the students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders of our University have displayed incredible resolve and strength. We are strong and united.
In the midst of this crisis, I implore all members of the Thorobred family to unite and stand stronger than has ever been recorded since 1886. Let us show the world that we are THOROBRED STRONG.
Until we meet again on the Hill, remember that Thorobreds are moving #KSUForward and can face any challenge when we are together in spirit, word, and deed.
It is indeed the best of times and the worst of times, but Kentucky State University is THOROBRED STRONG.
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