Delta State University celebrated its 95th Commencement Exercise Friday, May 6, and it was a ceremony filled with surprises.
The more than 400 graduates and thousands of guests gathered in the Walter SIllers Coliseum for the 10 a.m. ceremony witnessed not one, but two giants of the financial industry as honorary degree recipient Walt Bettinger II, CEO of The Charles Schwab Corporation, was hooded by an unexpected guest, fellow Delta State alumnus and former CEO and Chairman of the Board for the United Parcel Service (UPS) Davis Abney ('76).
In addition, Delta State President William N. LaForge gave a surprise presentation by announcing that the forthcoming volleyball court and student wellness space at Delta State will be named in honor of graduate William Young of Flora, who spearheaded the project as the 2021 Student Government Association President, making him the first Delta State student to receive such a distinction.
The Walter Sillers Coliseum was filled to capacity as family and friends celebrated those earning undergraduate and graduate degrees during the ceremony. Two doctoral degrees and 17 educational specialist degrees were conferred, while 122 master’s degrees and 287 bachelor’s degrees were awarded, subject to completion of all degree requirements, through the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Education and the School of Nursing.
“Every day is a great day to be at Delta State, and I know that our degree candidates here today will fondly remember this occasion, on this day in particular, that we honor you—our Spring 2022 graduating class— for your hard work and your perseverance in achieving academic success that few actually accomplish,” said LaForge. “Today, graduates, you have reached a milestone, and we’re very pleased to recognize your achievements.”
LaForge then introduced Bettinger, who gave the commencement address. A native of Ada, Ohio, Bettinger attended Delta State from 1979 to 1981 on an academic and golf scholarship. He completed his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Ohio University and has completed the General Management program at the Harvard Business School.
“We are thrilled to have him back on our campus for this commencement ceremony,” said LaForge. “Walt Bettinger is the ideal blend of a successful CEO and a servant leader. He is a leader’s leader…he exhibits professional and personal modesty while leading and serving his company, his industry, and his clients in unique and creative ways—all with integrity. He is an exemplar and an inspiration for our graduates here today.”
During his address, Bettinger shared with graduates the true meaning of leadership and success.
“For many of you, today marks not an ending, but a beginning…in many cases, the beginning of a new career,” he said. “You see, many of you will eventually become managers, administrators, coaches, managing directors, vice presidents, senior executives, presidents and even some CEOs.”
However, it isn’t the title that makes one a leader, Bettinger said.
“That title can only be earned … and it can only be awarded by the people you will serve,” he said.
Similarly, success isn’t about what you accomplish but rather who you help along the way, shared Bettinger.
“Success isn’t your job title, how many people know who you are, how much money you have, or, of course, how good of a golfer you are,” he said, referring to his initial career plan of becoming a professional golfer.
“Rather, it begins with taking the time to get to know and to thank every person you meet in life… Success is about serving others.”
