Saturday, Oct. 15, 8:30 a.m.
Good morning and welcome! It’s a joy to be here.
Florida State University is the kind of place that loves its traditions, but Homecoming is my favorite.
It’s a time when we welcome members of the Florida State family back home to the warmth of this campus. It’s a time when we can gather to relive our own memories, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate the success of our students and alumni who have brought such honor to the university.
Just look around this room: You cannot help but be impressed by the talent, dedication and passion for this university.
I am so pleased that Marion Hargett, Montego Glover and Craig Nance are here today to be recognized as Grads Made Good. We are proud of their achievements, and their success reflects so well on Florida State.
In a few minutes, we’ll find out who among our many deserving faculty and staff members will be honored with the Ross Oglesby Award. The winner, of course, remains a closely guarded secret until the award is presented.
And, I know I am biased, but you could not have made a better choice in your selection for the Sliger Award than my dear friend, Bill Proctor. Bill and I have known each other for many years, and he is a man of utmost integrity and intelligence and he has the heart of a true public servant. He is a hero to me in many ways.
I’m also pleased to recognize our grand marshals, DeVoe and Shirley Moore. From the bottom of their garnet and gold hearts, DeVoe and Shirley love FSU, and it was great to see them leading yesterday’s parade.
It’s truly wonderful to have the best of the FSU family together this morning. All of our honorees have secured their place in Florida State history by pushing boundaries and redefining standards within their respective fields.
I know we’re all excited to cheer on our Seminoles as we prepare for victory over Wake Forest this afternoon.
But this morning is all about expressing our appreciation for the university that we love and showing our gratitude to the people who make us so proud of it. That’s the true spirit of Homecoming.
Thank you, and go Noles!