Finding the Honor Within Us: Reflections on the Honors Banquet

This was an empowering and inspirational day of hearing stories that reminded us we are not the only ones struggling in life or feeling out of place. Even when we are confused about what our future is supposed to be, we are not alone. Every leader goes through something to become who they are today.

When Judith spoke about how she became the University Scholars Program (USP) assistant, it broadened my own horizons even more. 

It was relieving to hear that all of us have felt stuck at times—like we had some idea of what to do, yet also no idea at all. She shared her leadership journey and all she accomplished, from serving as editor of The Green Light to helping write pieces that drew from Scripture and even works like Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. One thing she said that will stay with me for a long time is that you should always use your passion and interests, and feed your creativity, curiosity and faith.
 

School of Graduate and Professional Studies Dean Michelle Bradford, Psy.D., shared her story of growing up as an island girl who moved to New York and later back to the islands. 

She experienced diversity and change, but one person was always there for her: her grandmother. This made me pause and ask myself—who is always there for me? She reminded us that our leadership journey doesn’t begin perfectly. Life can feel limited at times, but when we keep our faith and trust in God, great things begin to unfold. Dean Bradford never expected how one place could open so many doors for her. Since arriving at FPU, she has grown both personally and in her faith. I reflected on how FPU has opened so many doors for me as well, and I know many others would say the same.