FORT KNOX, Ky. – The recipients of 51 college degrees and certificates from several different colleges and universities were honored at one combined ceremony in Fort Knox’s Waybur Theater Oct. 15.
The graduates represented 24 different schools and included a mother-daughter pair receiving their doctorates together, and one man who had been working toward his degree for more than four decades. Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Rodney Newell was selected as the ceremony’s student speaker, who at the age of 74 had begun his college path many years earlier.
“It’s been a long road, though maybe a lot of yours weren’t as long as mine was,” said Newell. “You’ve got to have passion. For somebody who started this avenue in 1976, it ended up being a little harder for me than I expect it was for you. It’s passion that’s kept me going.”
Commanding General of U.S. Army Cadet Command and Fort Knox Maj. Gen. Johnny Davis served as the event keynote speaker. He offered words of encouragement and pride to the graduates.
“Achieving a higher education does not stop when you earn a degree. Be tireless to learn new things throughout your life. Be a lifelong learner,” said Davis. “Choosing to further your education is a big deal. I’m proud of each and every one of you, and I know you’re going to go out and spread your greatness across the world.
“Congratulations, and thank you for your selfless service and dedication.”
The Army Education Center organizes the annual all-schools college graduation ceremony for current and former military members who wish to participate.
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