'Keep Learning'
"Education is not a destination; it's a journey. It's a journey that doesn't always follow a straight path. Sometimes, it takes detours. Sometimes, it pauses. But what matters is that you keep moving forward, guided by your passion and determination." – Trudy Monson '97, president of the HCC Alumni Council
In her Commencement address, Trudy Monson '97, president of the HCC Alumni Council, encouraged new graduates to stay connectee to the college as alumni, to return and share their wisdom and stories or success.
'Good morning graduates, families, faculty, staff, and honored guests. My name is Trudy Monson, Class of 1997, and President of the Holyoke Community College Alumni Council. It is my honor to stand before you today, not just as your Alumni Council President, but as someone who once sat exactly where you're sitting now.
When I look out at all of you today, I see more than just graduates. I see dreamers, problem-solvers, and future leaders. I see parents, children, friends, and neighbors who have overcome countless obstacles to be here. Most importantly, I see the next chapter of HCC's remarkable legacy.
My own journey to HCC wasn't exactly traditional. For years, I put my education on hold. It wasn't until my daughters, Kim and Sarah, turned the tables on me and challenged me to return to HCC to finish my degree.
Let me tell you, it was not easy. Most nights, the three of us would be doing homework together. Sometimes, my daughters even had to help me with my assignments. But I persevered, and in 1997, I stood where you're standing now. The three of us accomplished something remarkable together, and I learned a valuable lesson: it's never too late to pursue your dreams.
HCC has been woven into the fabric of my family for generations. My father, Robert E. Evans Jr., Class of 1950, was not only an alumnus but also served as an HCC counselor, professor, and the college's first Affirmative Action officer. Before that, he was a Tuskegee Airman – part of that groundbreaking group of African American military pilots who served our country with distinction. The education he received at HCC changed the trajectory of his life, just as it has changed mine and now yours.
My sister Dawn graduated in 1976. My daughters Kim and Sarah graduated in 2001 and 2003, respectively. And perhaps most touching to me, my father's proudest moment at HCC was when he stood on stage in 2001 and watched his granddaughter Kim receive her diploma. Recently, my granddaughter Alivia chose to wear my African-American graduation stole for her school's "Represent Your Culture Day." Perhaps she'll be the next generation to carry on our family's legacy at HCC.
I often think about my father's dedication to education. He used to walk over the Holyoke mountain and back for tutoring sessions in Easthampton when he attended UMass Amherst. His commitment showed me that education is worth every difficult step we take. Today, you've completed an important part of your educational journey, but I hope you'll keep walking, keep learning, and keep growing.
What I want you to take away from my story is this: education is not a destination; it's a journey. It's a journey that doesn't always follow a straight path. Sometimes, it takes detours. Sometimes, it pauses. But what matters is that you keep moving forward, guided by your passion and determination.
Today, you join a community of over 40,000 HCC alumni who understand exactly where you stand right now. The world you're about to enter can feel overwhelming and uncertain—we've all been there. But here's what I want you to know: you're not stepping into it alone. We are your neighbors, your coworkers, your future business partners and mentors, and most importantly, we are your safety net. When challenges arise, when you face difficult decisions, or when you simply need someone who understands your journey, this community stands ready to support you.
As you leave HCC, I encourage you to stay connected. Your journey with this institution doesn't end today. Come back to campus to share your success stories. Consider becoming a mentor to current students. Join us at alumni events. Volunteer your time and expertise. Your experiences and wisdom can inspire the next generation of HCC students.
In closing, I want to leave you with this thought: The diploma you receive today represents more than just the completion of coursework. It represents perseverance, determination, and the courage to pursue your dreams. It represents countless late nights, early mornings, and moments when you didn't think you could keep going – but you did.
Be proud of what you've accomplished. Be excited about what lies ahead. And know that you will always have a home at Holyoke Community College.
Congratulations, Class of 2025!"
PHOTO: Trudy Monson '97 welcomes the graduates as HCC alumni.
