UL graduation: ‘It is now your turn’ – photo galleries of graduations included

Amanda McElfresh, Daily Advertiser, May 13, 2012

More than 1,300 individuals are officially part of the UL alumni family today after receiving their diplomas during Saturday’s commencement exercises.

Now that their formal educations are over — for the moment, at least — they have a responsibility to use their smarts and skills to help improve the world, said Retired Lt. Gen. Russel Honore the keynote speaker for Saturday’s general assembly.

An enthusiastic and upbeat Honore, best known for leading Joint Task Force Katrina in New Orleans in 2005, urged graduates to think in global terms and be a part of finding solutions to complex issues like proving safe food, water and air to the world’s citizens; improving education and reducing poverty levels.

"There are many challenges awaiting you "» Out of those challenges come opportunities," Honore said. "We live in what I call the ‘new normal.’ The opportunity for success within that new normal comes in solving these issues. You are now equipped to solve those problems. It is now your turn."

Honore also encouraged graduates to "live a life of moderation," take care of their health and be mindful of what kind of influences they allow into their lives. Simple choices such as what a person reads can ultimately affect his or her thoughts and actions.

"Be careful of what you put into your brain, because it will direct your actions," Honore said.

While making a difference in the global world, Honore also recommended volunteering in a community, and a focus on family and home life.

"Save your best leadership for when you get home," he said. "You’ve got to raise good kids. Your parents did. You’re here today. Continue that tradition."

UL President Joseph Savoie also applauded the day’s graduates.

"There are few things more rewarding than to see young people realizing that they have the power to make their dreams come true," Savoie said, also telling graduates to hold on to their enthusiasm, hope, optimism and energy as they enter their careers.

Graduates also should remember the sacrifices that their family members and friends made to help them reach the milestone, Savoie said.

"You have an obligation to return that favor," he said. "Reach back and help someone else up."

Click here for the list of photo galleries.

Click here for the photo of Courtney Dugas  (#18 of 58), former Athletic Network student worker, and the photos from the College of Business Administration graduation.