On May 13, Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance President and CEO Lori Dukes gave the commencement address to the Purdue Polytechnic University Class of 2023. In her speech, she gave advice that applies to all graduates, and she encouraged them to stay in the Kokomo community to apply what they have learned.

The Kokomo Lantern reproduces Dukes’ address with her permission.

Congratulations on achieving this milestone in your life. Today marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, as you leave behind the familiar halls of your alma mater and step out into the world as graduates.

I want to express how much of a pleasure it has been to witness your dedication over the past few years in our building. From my office window, I have enjoyed watching the almost daily cornhole games played between classes and the camaraderie that comes with being part of a university while building strong student friendships. It's truly inspiring to see the students arrive for class, often wearing work boots and outdoor weather work gear, bearing the marks of someone who is managing a job while also furthering their education. I have always admired the resilience and tenacity of such hardworking individuals, and it's an honor to be a part of your journey.

I have immense respect for working students because I was once in your shoes. As a college student, I also attended a local college full time while juggling two jobs. It was certainly not easy.  I did a lot of homework in parking lots, studied through breaks and lunches, and quite frankly didn’t know what to do with my extra hours once I received my degree.  The challenges of those work and school experiences afforded me the ability to manage my tasks and responsibilities effectively today. I understand firsthand the value of hard work, perseverance, and the prioritization that it takes to balance multiple responsibilities and commitments.

Because of all of that, in my opinion, you are our community's best asset.  Our future will ride on the backs of a workforce with the abilities you possess. Because Kokomo needs your skills, your knowledge, and your passion to drive our community forward, I urge you to continue pursuing your dreams and aspirations here in Kokomo.

Now let me tell you why.  Kokomo has a bright future; brighter than it has ever been. And by choosing to pursue your career here, that future could be yours to mold. Because our community is on the verge of significant change and diversification thanks to the $2.5 billion StarPlus Energy electric vehicle battery plant development, you can leave your personal footprint and legacy on that growth. By stepping into the workforce and pursuing your career goals in Kokomo, your work here can have a lasting impact.

It’s here that you can grab hold of the community’s current momentum and be a pioneer in the next chapter of our history, much like that of the ones who came before you.

You might be tempted to leave your hometown, in search of other opportunities or a change of scenery. But let me remind you that there is value in staying close to home. You have a unique understanding of the community you grew up in, its strengths and its weaknesses. And that knowledge can be a tremendous asset, both to you and to the people around you.

However, staying local isn't enough. Nor is the dedication and perseverance I’ve seen in you as you walked the halls of Purdue Polytechnic. As you embark on your journey after graduation, you will need to carry those traits through to find success. There will be times when things won't go as planned, and you'll face challenges that will test your limits. But if you stay committed to your goals, you will eventually overcome whatever challenges lie ahead of you.

Commitment is not just about working hard; it's about going beyond the call of duty. You must go through life with more than just passion for your career. You need a strategy, and more importantly, action. Don't be afraid of failure. Welcome it. Learn from it. It is in those moments of stress and challenge that we grow the most.

In today's culture, we are often told that life is about self, but in reality, it is about others. Life is about community. It is about the connections we make and the impact we have on the people around us. Much like the community you built in your time here at Purdue Polytechnic, you will take those lessons and apply them to the broader sense of finding your place in a community that you’re proud to call home.

So, I challenge you to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, work hard, and make the most of every opportunity you encounter to expand your career path and equally this community.

We need you now more than ever, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion and make meaningful contributions to our collective future. So, as you move forward on your journey, remember that your hard work, grit, and perseverance are what make you truly exceptional.

As you leave Purdue Polytechnic with your degree in hand, I challenge you to think of things others can't think of, do things that others wouldn't try, and raise the ceiling by breaking norms. I also challenge you to innovate, volunteer, and show up for work on time without the distractions of your phone. It's time once again for our pull-up-your-bootstraps mentality. Your journey doesn't end today. It's just the beginning.