Valedictory Address 2010 - Carson Grolla

Good afternoon Chancellor Gerry Maier, President Rob Palmarin, honoured guests, family, friends and fellow graduates.

I am truly honoured to be able to stand up here today and speak on behalf of the 2010 graduating class, as these are the finest young men and women that I have come to know. We are all here to partake in one of the greatest events in our lives, Graduation. Graduation is such an important time for us all as it symbolizes our readiness to step into the world and make a difference. There are always high expectations for graduates of Notre Dame. I believe that our grad class will be doing more than fulfilling these expectations. We will exceed these expectations with no hassle and much determination, because that is what Hounds do.

To the Staff:
There really is a sense of belonging here that isn't displayed anywhere else. This sense of belonging is generated by the staff. There aren't many places where staff will go out of their way to make sure that everyone is included, whether it is a big event like rodeo day or something as simple as a class activity, these wonderful people make sure everyone enjoys their time here. Not just because it's their job, but because it is what they truly love to do. They are moulders of great minds, but they are also good friends who are willing to help with anything. Through these great people, Pere's vision of turning out fantastic young men and women who will help to change the world is still happening. We owe all the staff a big thanks for the extra time and effort they have put into each one of us, as we surely wouldn't be the people we are today without them.

To our Parents:
Being able to attend the Athol Murray College of Notre Dame is truly a privilege. Everything about this place is truly a gift from God, but being able to have this great experience would not be possible if it wasn't for our parents. They have been our biggest fans and supporters since the beginning of our lives. They brought us into this world and have shown unconditional love right from the start. Our parents had to make sacrifices to allow us to come to Notre Dame. These weren't just financial sacrifices, there are emotional sacrifices as well, that come with letting your children leave home at such an early age. It's simply amazing how they love us no matter what we do, whether it is making the honour roll, scoring a goal or occasionally making a questionable choice and getting 36 hours. They are with us to celebrate the good times. And they aren't going anywhere when times are bad, because they know that for us to grow as people we have to be able to make our own mistakes and learn from them. Notre Dame has taught us to be independent and we owe that to your generosity. Despite the fact that some days it feels like we have been so far away from you- we know that you have been there right beside us to support us and guide us the whole time we have been here. Thank you for trusting us and for trusting Notre Dame.

To the Graduates:
Finally, to my fellow graduates. Graduation has been thirteen years in the making, and today it is finally here! It's amazing how fast all these years have gone by. I guess that's what happens when you're having the time of your life with your extended family. It feels like kindergarten was only yesterday, and then we blinked and here we are up on this stage - all grown up and looking pretty good even if I do say so myself! It has been quite an amazing experience becoming a Hound. One of the things that I am truly thankful for is that I have met and made lifelong friends with people from all over the world. The diversity of our student population is a unique reality. It's amazing how this little prairie college has brought us all together for a lifetime. As this year has passed, I realized how much each one of you has impacted me and each other. Now it is time to have an impact on the world. Pere believed he could change the world with this little college. I believe that too! Whether it is through teaching a group of elementary students, discovering a cure for diabetes, winning the Stanley Cup or as leaders in our nation's capital. We are called to do great things because we are Hounds! Whether you believe it or not, one of the hardest parts of being a Hound is leaving because no matter if you're a five year or a first year or anywhere in between, you have been impacted by Notre Dame.

Our time here has been one we will never forget, but don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.

Thank you and God Bless
Carson Grolla
Class of 2010 Valedictorian
Athol Murray College of Notre Dame