Winston-Salem State University has produced many influential figures, including NBA Hall of Famer Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, whose legendary basketball career began at WSSU, and Stephen A. Smith, who credits the university with helping him find his voice in media. The university has also been home to trailblazers like Virginia Newell, who founded WSSU’s computer science program and broke barriers in education and public service.

When people say it’s hard to be a Ram, I understand now what that really means. It’s early mornings, long nights, doubts, growth, pressure, and perseverance. It’s wanting to quit sometimes but choosing not to. I came here knowing I would struggle. I made mistakes. I failed at times. But in those moments, I found myself. I built friendships that feel more like family, and relationships with professors and mentors who poured into me in ways I’ll never forget.

Sometimes, in order to succeed, you have to be willing to fall short. You have to sit with disappointment and learn from it. Those experiences didn’t break me, they built me. They shaped me into a stronger, wiser, better man. And for that, I will always be grateful.

To Mr.Todd Davis, thank you for opening doors and helping me discover what I truly love. Dr. Speas, thank you for your constant support and belief in me. Professor Antonio Davis, thank you for teaching me professionalism and holding me to a higher standard. And to my friends and classmates thank you for the laughs, the late-night talks, the stress, the celebrations, and the memories that will stay with me long after this moment passes.

Now this chapter comes to an end, and even though I’m proud of how far I’ve come, it’s hard to say goodbye. There’s something about walking away from a place that helped shape you that feels heavier than expected. These halls, these classrooms, these people they became home.

I’m stepping into a new chapter, but a part of me will always remain here. Thank you, WSSU… for the lessons, the struggles, the growth, and the memories. Signing off.