Rev. John Denning, C.S.C., Encourages Grads to 'Dream Large' in Commencement Address
The president of Stonehill College echoed the words of Pope Francis in his remarks.
Good morning, everyone. It’s so good to have Commencement back on the quad for the first time in three years, celebrating our undergraduate and graduate students in the Class of 2022.
Your journey to this day has not been an easy one. You have had to adapt in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Through the most uncertain of times, you found moments of levity and light, overcame unprecedented challenges, and held onto hope for the future.
And now you are here, among family, friends, faculty and staff as we celebrate your achievements, reflect on the past four years, and imagine what you bring to the future.
During a recent homily, Pope Francis said, “Dear young people, it is my hope and prayer that each of you can joyfully say: ‘I am a dreamer, dazzled by the light of the Gospel…And whenever I fall, I discover anew in Jesus the courage to continue fighting and hoping, the courage to keep dreaming. At every stage in life.’”
I am filled with such optimism—now more than ever—that our future is made brighter by each of you. Guided by the values of this community, fortified by the wisdom you have gained, and supported by those around you, may each of you—harness the power of our motto Lux et Spes—to realize your dreams.
Provost DeBrenna Agbényiga (left) and President John Denning, C.S.C. (right)
I have been profoundly moved by the courage, resilience, and perseverance I have witnessed by each of you over these incredible years. The setbacks did not deny nor deter you from your hopes and dreams—from completing your goals.
Your triumphs against these obstacles have prepared you so well for a rapidly changing world. As Stonehill speaker Shannon Bursey so eloquently said: Skyhawks are unstoppable; can overcome any obstacle; make the impossible possible; no bridge is uncrossable.
Regardless of what you pursue—whether your passion is poetry and performance like Shannon or outdoor citizenship and conservation like John Judge, I hope the knowledge and wisdom you gained here stay with you always as you pursue your dreams.
I echo the Pope’s plea to dream large and express my gratitude as well for all the gifts you have shared with us. Thank you for continuing to build a beloved community for which you will always be a part.
Class of 2022, this is not the end of your Stonehill story. This special place will always be here for you, a haven and a home to return to. You are always most welcome.
I pray that Mary, Queen of the Summit, watches over you in her love as you pursue your dreams. Congratulations and God Bless.