Congressman Tells VCU Graduates to Embrace the Future with Passion

By Anne Buckley

RICHMOND, Va. (Dec. 12, 2009) – U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va., told graduates at Virginia Commonwealth University on Saturday that they will need persistence and passion to ensure their success and that of their country.

“At this challenging time in the nation’s history we will be judged by how we respond as a people,” he said. “You have been prepared to create and think beyond the realm of ordinary to make a difference.”

“It’s not the size of the problem, it’s the magnitude of resolve demonstrated to overcome it. In today’s world, you will be tested,” said Wittman, who holds a Ph.D. in public policy and administration from VCU.

“Work hard, never give up and pursue everything you do with passion,” said Wittman, who was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from VCU at the ceremony.

Students received professional, graduate and undergraduate degrees during the ceremony at the Stuart C. Siegel Center. The fall commencement, which is in its ninth year at VCU, recognizes both August and December graduates of the university. A combined total of more than 2,800 degrees were conferred.

Michael Rao, Ph.D., president of Virginia Commonwealth University, presided over his first commencement at VCU. He praised the graduates for their extensive efforts in the community, noting that VCU students contributed more than 500,000 hours of community service last year through service-learning courses. 

“The number of ways that you – our students – have given to the Richmond community – and to communities around the world – is very impressive,” Rao said.