Kay Ivey delivers commencement address at Faulkner University

On Saturday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) delivered the commencement address at Faulkner University.

Ivey's speech was a part of the ceremony in Tine Davis Gym as she congratulated the approximately 100 graduates. The Governor praised Faulkner for being a Christian university and inspired graduates to stay true to their faith as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

"Faulkner University is a unique Christian university and a special place for young men and women to be transformed into servant leaders," Ivey said. "Through my years, I have relied on my faith to guide me through difficult challenges; and I have no doubt that every one of you is prepared to discover and fulfil God's plan for you... Graduates you are about to embark on life's journey that will offer you many new beginnings."

Ivey encouraged the graduates to make wise choices on their new journey and emphasized the importance of character values that have made a difference in her life and impacted her many years in political office.

"Wise choices will determine your destiny," said Ivey. "Wisdom is looking into the future to see the possible outcomes of your decisions before you make those choices. Three-character values must also guide your life. These are most essential: hard work, honesty and service to God and country. Those three values have made the most profound impact on my life. What will your destiny do? It's your choice. You get to decide. It's up to each of you."

"Graduates, you are in command of the 21st century," Ivey added. "Charge ahead and make it even more wonderful. Stay true to your faith and stand strong. Congratulations, best of luck and soar eagles!"

Faulkner President Mitch Henry also extended his congratulations to the graduating class and encouraged them in their future endeavors.

"We live in challenging times," Henry said. "Our world is filled with suffering and human needs that often go unmet. Polarization is prevalent, but you students are equipped to face all these challenges. You'll bring healing to the suffering, you will bring the good news of Jesus Christ by sharing your faith and you will bring peace because you hold the hope of our future. I believe in you and I'm proud of you."

Kay Ivey is Alabama's 54th governor and the second woman to hold that role. Ivey grew up on a cattle farm in Wilcox County. Ivey graduated from Auburn University and pursued a career in Education. Returning to Alabama, she served in a number of roles in state government, including a clerk for Speaker of the House Joe McCorquodale. and later as Vice Director of the Alabama Development Office. Those early experiences with economic development would foreshadow her tenure as governor where the focus has been squarely on jobs and improving the business climate in the state. Ivey was elected state Treasurer in 2002. She was re-elected in 2006 and then unseated former Governor Jim Folsom Jr. (D) in 2010 to become Lieutenant Governor. On April 10, 2017, she was elevated to Governor when Gov. Robert Bentley (R) resigned. She was elected to her own term as governor in 2018 and re-elected in 2022.

Faulkner University is a private, Christian university based in Montgomery, Alabama with a mission to provide an education anchored not only by intellect but also character and service. The Faulkner experience aims to educate the whole person. Serving both traditional and non-traditional students, the university is home to six colleges: the Alabama Christian College of Arts and Sciences, the Harris College of Business and Executive Education, the V.P. Black College of Biblical Studies, the College of Education, Faulkner Law and the College of Health Sciences. In addition to its main campus in Montgomery, Faulkner operates extension campuses in Birmingham, Huntsville and Mobile along with online degree programs.