Embrace challenges, seek opportunities for growth, AUN tells graduands

The American University of Nigerian (AUN) has graduated 218 students from across different disciplines. The students were urged to embrace challenges, seek opportunities for growth, and never lose sight of the values and principles that have guided them thus far as they face the larger society. This is even as it is graduating its highest […]

The American University of Nigerian (AUN) has graduated 218 students from across different disciplines.

The students were urged to embrace challenges, seek opportunities for growth, and never lose sight of the values and principles that have guided them thus far as they face the larger society.

This is even as it is graduating its highest number since it commenced the programmes.

The President of AUN, DeWayne Frazier, who made the call at the 16th Commencement ceremony of the university for the Class of 2025 on Saturday told the graduating students to remember that success is not solely defined by grades or accolades but by finding purpose, pursuing passions, and making a positive impact on the world around you as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Dr Frazier, who also marked two years in office, said: “As we gather here today to celebrate this milestone, let us embrace the spirit of gratitude, reflection, and optimism.”

Frazier said: “Today, we honor not only your academic accomplishments but also the growth and transformation you have undergone as individuals. You leave this institution equipped with knowledge, skills, and experiences that will serve as a solid foundation for your future endeavors. Take pride in what you have achieved, and let it fuel your aspirations for the future. You all are not just educated in “book smarts” , we have taken the time to teach you about entrepreneurship and the value of service.”

While describing the commencement as a momentous occasion and the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, he said “This service is a culmination of your academic experience, and we are commencing you into the world of your careers, lives and futures.”

The President congratulated the graduates, saying, “This day marks a significant milestone in your lives, and it is a testament to your determination and resilience to pursue your dreams. You have shown us what it means to dream big, to pursue your passions, and to overcome challenges with grace and fortitude.”

“As we reflect on the years that have led us to this moment, let us remember the countless hours spent studying, the late nights fueled by determination, and the unwavering support from family and friends who have been by your side every step of the way.

“Graduation is a time of reflection and a profound moment of hope. Take the time to thank those who have supported you, mentored you, and believed in your potential. Remember the friendships forged, the lessons learned, and the memories created. Carry these with you as you step into the world, knowing that you are well-prepared to make a difference.”

The commencement Speaker, Brian Deaver, advised the graduands to avoid the phrase “Good enough” and embrace excellence.

He said: ““Good enough” is the voice that tells you to turn in the assignment before checking it one more time. It is the whisper that says, “Why push harder when no one is watching?” It is the satisfied shrug that kills innovation, poisons relationships, and buries dreams.“Good enough,” my friends, is the enemy of excellence.”

Deaver who is the CEO, African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja explained that excellence is not about getting it right the first time but about refusing to stop just because you got it right enough.

“Nigeria, your beautiful, vibrant country, is filled with incredible minds, bold ideas, and the kind of raw brilliance that can shake the world. Throughout the world, in every leading healthcare institution I visit, I find Nigerian doctors and nurses in the top echelons of medicine, surgery, research, faculty and leadership,” he said.

He said Nigeria and AUN in many ways are kindred spirits and both are places of extraordinary promise. Adding that both have faced their share of challenges and yet, both continue to rise in global rankings, proving that perseverance, vision, and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence can defy the odds.

While congratulating the graduands, he said: “If this generation, your generation is determined to abandon “good enough,” then Nigeria will not rise slowly,she will rise like the morning sun: bold, bright, undeniable, and unstoppable. You have the education, the exposure, the vision but more importantly, you have the responsibility.”

Earlier, the Valedictorian, Habiba Amani Abdullahi said it took resilience to get to the position they have gotten today.

She said AUN is a university and also a community where a child would be molded.

To the class of 2025, she said: “As we prepare to leave this place, take a moment to remember what you learnt. Keep going and keep showing up for yourself.”