Retired Navy lieutenant commander keynotes Honors Convocation

 

Keynote speaker Pia Woodley shared the knowledge she gained from Florida A&M and the experience she obtained from the Navy at the Honors Convocation on Thursday in Lee Hall.

As a retired lieutenant commander who is pursuing a doctorate in business administration with a specialization in health care management, Woodley continues to exceed great expectations.

Woodley encouraged attendees to join the Honors Program at FAMU.

“I challenge you to use your gifts and talents to succeed,” Woodley said.

In the book written by former FAMU President Frederick Humphries, he mentioned the importance of exceeding great expectations.

Woodley said FAMU is exceeding great expectations, but more is required from students. She stressed the importance of being involved and becoming leaders with great character and courage.

“Pride is our greatest downfall,” Woodley said. “Pride is the lack of compassion and mercy for others. Your character counts.”

Matthew Bien-Aime, a sophomore biology student from Tampa, Fla., and fall 2012 Honors Program inductee, enjoyed the convocation.

In the absence of Interim President Larry Robinson, who was attending a board of governors meeting, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Donald Palm presented Woodley with the “Presidents Award” plaque.

Woodley explained how FAMU has provided students with opportunities to earn a degree who may not have had the chance.

As the 1988-89 student body president, Woodley was an active student on FAMU’s campus. The concept of going the extra mile and striving to be the best.

Tameika Atkinson, the 2011-12 Honors program vice president, said attendance at the Honors Convocation has grown tremendously.

“I think the convocation was really well produced,” Atkinson said. “We had a great representation of the student body. We started out in Perry Paige, and now we have progressed to being in Lee Hall. And the last few years it has been a university-wide convocation where classes have been suspended.”