Just over 2,000 students became alumni today as Brigham Young University hosted summer graduation. The Young Men General President David L. Beck addressed the audience as the main speaker at Thursday’s Commencement Ceremony held at the Marriott Center.
Brother Beck, who was called as the Young Men General President in April 2009, spoke about centering our lives on Christ, no matter where you are in life, as well as to remember the blessings that have come and will come from attending BYU. He reminded the students that where much is given, much is required.
“Each of you, who have been given so much, has a duty to shine,” Brother Beck said. “To do this, you must shun the ungodly influences in the world and maintain high standards. The path of mediocrity can never be yours.”
As the summer graduates leave BYU campus, Brother Beck encouraged them to always keep their families and homes strong in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
'There is no more important place for you to seek a Christlike standard of behavior than in our own homes,” Brother Beck said. “You must never sacrifice your family for career or other outside interest. Indeed, in time and eternity you will influence nations by being family focused.”
Representing the graduating class was student speaker Julianne Long, from Provo, who graduated with honors in linguistics. Her time at BYU was filled with exploring the world of BYU campus and growing from her experiences.
“Perhaps the greatest learning we will have achieved at BYU comes from the experiences of interacting with others,” Long said. “Now I encourage you to do just that — go out into the world, no matter how large or small that may be for you. Find a passion, learn from your fellow men and women, make a difference. I believe in you class of 2012.”
President Cecil O. Samuelson greeted the graduates, family members and friends to the ceremony. Samuleson shared his father’s experience in working toward a doctorate degree and said although each graduate has a different story, their time at BYU will always bless them.
“All of you have a story and are part of a grand legacy that will bless not only you and those with you today but will reach on through the generations and over space to bless many others for years to come,” Samuelson said.