Adams State University graduated 297 students at its Fall 2019 Commencement Ceremony held on Saturday, Dec. 14, at Plachy Hall. Two students, Sheniqua A. Griffith and Janet Najar Madera, shared the stage to address their fellow graduates with an inspiring talk on “identity” and how Adams State helps shape the identity of all its students.

“These are just two stories out of the many in the room today,” student speaker Janet Najar Madera said of her personal story and that of fellow classmate, Sheniqua A. Griffith. “Your story may be different. Your story may be similar. But at the end of the day, it is your story.”

“These stories are what shape your identity,” added Griffith, “and your identity is what shapes your life, and overall your college experience is now a significant part of your identity.”

The students were followed by Lillian Gomez, executive director of Title V Initiatives at Adams State, who delivered the commencement address.

Lillian Gómez delivers Fall 2019 commencement address

“No matter how much you have and will accomplish, there is always more to learn and there is always more to achieve,” Gomez told the graduating class. “It’s not time to rest on your accomplishments. Your developed work is yet to come.”