U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito delivered the keynote address at West Virginia Wesleyan College’s 134th Commencement ceremony in Buckhannon, West Virginia. During the event, she was honored with the Rhododendron Award, a distinction given by the college to individuals who have brought honor to their state or shown exemplary leadership on behalf of the institution. Senator Capito is only the 16th recipient of this award since it began in 1967.
West Virginia Wesleyan College President James Moore expressed gratitude for Senator Capito’s participation: “On behalf of the graduating class, faculty, staff, and the entire West Virginia Wesleyan College community, we extend our gratitude to Senator Capito for joining with us to celebrate our graduates and providing the 134th Commencement Address.” He praised her speech as “inspirational” and acknowledged her service and support for higher education.
In her address, Senator Capito acknowledged various contributors to students’ successes including parents and educators. She emphasized family support: “And graduates, what I’ve learned during my short time on Earth is that the saying, ‘life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother,’ could not be more true.”
She urged graduates to reach out for advice when needed: “Whether it’s your mother, your father, a grandparent, sibling or friend… Don’t text them; call them.” Additionally, she highlighted Wesleyan’s mission in preparing future leaders and encouraged graduates to contribute positively to society: “Wesleyan’s commitment…is a mission that we need now more than ever.”
Senator Capito also spoke about building strong personal relationships and finding purpose beyond oneself: “No matter how busy life may get… Help carry each other’s burdens.” She advised devotion to larger causes: “Devote yourself to something greater… Recognize that there is something bigger than you.”
Concluding her remarks with encouragement for graduates considering their futures in West Virginia: “I encourage you to build your life in West Virginia. No matter where you came from…you are all West Virginians now.”
Photos captured during the event show Senator Capito alongside WV Wesleyan College President James Moore and receiving her award.
