Adams State welcomes Hamner to fall commencement

Adams State University (ASU) awarded 230 degrees at its fall commencement Saturday at Plachy Hall in Alamosa.

Colorado state Rep. Millie Hamner (D-Dillon) gave the commencement address, which she titled "The Power of Education and Achievement." Hamner earned a master's degree in education from Adams State and then parlayed that degree into a career as an elementary school teacher and school superintendent. Her speech outlined what she called six doors of opportunity that defined turning points in her career.

"I challenge you to continue learning and even obtain advanced degrees," Hamner said."More doors of opportunity will open for you, and you'll have even more chances to change and improve lives beyond your own," she said. "Are you finished investing in yourself and your learning? Or will you continue to seek out and open those doors of opportunities? Those doors that allow you to continue developing your skills, your experience, and your perspective. When that next door of opportunity opens in front of you, will you close it, or will you close your eyes, take a deep breath, and walk confidently through it?" 

The ceremony was the first for ASU President Beverlee McClure, who emphasized the pursuit of continuing education as she welcomed the soon to be graduates into the ceremony.

"We hope you see your future here at ASU,” she said.