“Be prepared to change the world if the world needs changing,” former Sen. Steve Faris encouraged the 2011 graduates of the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts during the commencement ceremony on May 21 in Summit Arena at the Hot Springs Convention Center.
During the processional, the students surprised their parents and guests when the band transitioned from playing “Pomp and Circumstance” to “The Cupid Shuffle” and the students began dancing in the aisles. Director Janet Hugo joined in the dance on stage.
The school graduated 86 seniors who received acceptances to 84 colleges and universities and offers of more than $15 million in scholarships. Sixty-four percent of the graduates will attend schools in Arkansas. One student has enlisted with the U.S. Navy and another with the U.S. Air Force.
Seniors Yintong (Jessica) Cheng, Garrett Corpier and Jamie Smith addressed their classmates during the ceremony and the ASMSA Choir Ensemble sang “I Dream a World” by Dave Brubeck.
In his address, Faris shared advice and life lessons the graduates will need as they begin life on their own, continuing their education and building their careers.
“Be confident, courageous and capable, when necessary,” he told them. “But, be humble in your approach to life.”
He encouraged them to be confident enough to speak when necessary, to say what needs to be said, but to also know what they are talking about. And, to always respect others’ right to speak their opinions.
“Nothing is more basic in America than this privilege,” he said.
He reminded the graduates to live by example: to be kind, courteous, thoughtful and respectful, no matter what the circumstances. He also told them to be brave enough to take on challenges, even if that means making mistakes along the way.
“Listen to your heart, and use good judgment,” Faris said. “It’s much easier to be sorry for something you’ve done, than it is for something you didn’t do.”
He stressed the importance of good communication as the “most important element in a peaceful and progressive world.” Above all, he urged them to always look at the big picture in any circumstance and try not to go into situations with a closed mind.
And, in closing, he asked them to remember what they have learned at ASMSA and what the school has given them.
“Every single one of you is a unique example of how this school can change a life,” he said. “Your lives changed the moment you walked through the doors at ASMSA.”
Faris then recognized the dedication and efforts of Director Janet Hugo and how she has helped make the school a success.
“Carry the ASMSA mantel the way Dr. Hugo has carried it, as a symbol of pride and excellence,” Faris said. “Each of you will always be part of the magic of ASMSA. Be proud to be an alum.”