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MCC Daily Tribune

Quotes That Inspire

It is only fitting that today's quote honors the MCC Class of 2020 and those who supported our students' academic journeys. Assistant Vice President Matt O'Connor from our Economic Development and Innovative Workforce Services Division shares two quotes to put us in the right frame of mind as we virtually celebrate our graduates' achievements.

"Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value." - Albert Einstein, theoretical physicist and Nobel Prize in Physics recipient

As Matt planned to share with our highest achieving students at our traditional Academic Achievement Convocation, "Being of value underlies our MCC motto of 'Inspiring every day.' [MCC graduates] are all extraordinary men and extraordinary women pursuing extraordinary life paths. So be of value by inspiring others on your journey to follow a similarly purposeful life."

Matt also planned to remind colleagues to understand the roles we play in the lives of our graduates. According to Matt, "Inside the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral in London, the life and accomplishments of Sir Christopher Wren, the acclaimed architect of the Cathedral and of the city, are captured in a simple engraved epitaph under the stunningly beautiful dome. That inscription etched in black marble reads:

'If you seek his monument, look around you.'

"I say to all of you ... if you seek your monument, just look around you." "[Our graduates] are celebrating incredible personal success and are well prepared to embark on a life of inspiration and value to others. Congratulations!

Matt's concluding remarks: "Inspiring every day. Being of value. Monumental accomplishments. Einstein and Wren would be proud!"

Best of luck in your second round of retirement, Matt and thank you for your inspiring, parting words.

This year, like every other in my 45-year community college career, each graduate's journey of perseverance, dedication, struggle, and, ultimately, success humbles me. Join the campus community in virtually celebrating the MCC Class of 2020 beginning at 1 p.m. tomorrow, May 30 with the debut of Graduating Together video.

Is there a quote that motivates you as we look forward to summer session and plan for the upcoming academic year? If so, submit it along with a brief narrative about why the quote resonates for you to PresOffice@monroecc.edu. "Quotes That Inspire" are featured on Fridays in the MCC Daily Tribune.

Katherine Douglas
Office of the President
05/29/2020