Founders' Medal Speech

Marie Louise Thomas of Hattiesburg, the first student graduation speaker at Millsaps College in recent years, offered graduates practical advice.

Thomas, who received the Founders' Medal for having the highest grade point average and receiving an excellent on comprehensive examinations, encouraged graduates to be true to themselves. "Don't change who you are to fit someone else's expectations," she said.

She also advised them to expect change and welcome it, to build their lives around what makes them happy and to practice gratitude. "This is the only life you have, so make the most of it," she said.

Thomas received a Bachelor of Science in biology and geology. She plans to attend graduate school and study palynology, a branch of science dealing with pollen and spores.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• millsaps
• millsaps college
• commencement
• Founders Medal
• speech
• student
• speaker