“If luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity, you are the luckiest people alive,” former MD lieutenant governor Michael Steele told Capitol Technology University graduates in his commencement address Saturday (May 14th).
In an address that blended humor, moral urgency and insights drawn from his career in public service, Steele paid tribute to the dedication of parents, highlighted the importance of strong values, and praised the graduates for their perseverance and hard work.
He hailed the Class of 2016 as “a new generation of professionals who will utilize the tools and knowledge you gave gained here…to become full participants in this grand experiment we call America.”
“Trust me – we need you,” he added.
Steele, the first African-American to hold statewide office in Maryland, made history in 2003 with his election as lieutenant governor. In 2009, he made history again when he became the first African-American chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC).
He addressed graduates of Capitol’s associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, which cover a growing spectrum of business and technology fields.
The university’s president, Dr. Michael T. Wood, conferred on Steele an honorary doctorate of humanities, recognizing his accomplishments in public service, including his initiatives in education and efforts to promote economic development.
“Mr. Steele is known not only in Maryland but nationally for the breadth of his vision and his gift for communicating that vision.” Dr. Wood said in comments ahead of the ceremony.
“A leader is someone who is able to chart a path forward and motivate others in pursuit of noble goals,” Wood said. “Mr. Steele demonstrated such leadership skills during his career in public service, and again when he helped revitalize his party at a time when it needed new energy and direction. Mr. Steele has been a stalwart friend and supporter of Capitol Technology University and an advocate of the technology-focused education that we provide.”
“He is truly gifted speaker and I believe his message will inspire our graduates as they go forth to begin the next stage of their careers,” the president said.
In addition to Steele's address, the commencement program included musical selections performed by the Columbia Brass Quintet and soloist Andrew Exner. Reverend Dr. Kanika Magee conducted the invocation ceremony.
Rev. Dr. Magee is Associate Dean at the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel of Howard University. She received her doctoral degree from Catholic University of America in 2012 with a dissertation focusing on the life and work of Ella Mitchell, a pioneering preacher, mentor and church leader.
A poet and writer who has published four children’s books, and the founder of a consulting practice with a focus on community development, Magee has received several awards and honors, including the National Black MBA Association Fellowship. She has led workshops and motivational programs for youth across the country.
Capitol Technology University is the only independent college in Maryland dedicated to education in engineering, computer science, information technology and business through practices of leadership and innovation. Founded in 1927, Capitol offers associate, bachelor’s and master's degrees, doctoral programs in cybersecurity and management and decision sciences, and professional development training and certificates.The university campus is located in Laurel, Maryland, in a suburban setting midway between Baltimore and Washington, DC. www.captechu.edu.