On Friday, May 17, 2019, Keiser University Tampa hosted its annual spring commencement ceremony to honor the more than 325 students who earned their degrees. Approximately 120 graduates took part in the ceremony which culminated with the conferral of degrees by Keiser University Tampa President Brandon Barnhill.

 

The night was highlighted by Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister, who served as the graduation speaker. Chronister was well spoken and delivered a moving address to the graduates which emphasized the importance of “the journey” in one’s development.

 

“It is so important to go where the journey takes you, said Chronister. “When you have doubt, or the fear starts to creep in, don’t let it dictate your future.”

 

Chad Salvino represented the students and served as the class of 2019’s valedictorian after earning a perfect 4.0 cumulative grade point average in his biomedical science program. A 12-year veteran of the U.S. Army, Salvino’s addressed the audience with a series of advice that assisted him in his role as a solider, husband, father, and student. The most important guidance Salvino offered was to have kindness.

 

“Without kindness, everything that I have mentioned is just a tool; a means to an end, said Salvino.” Kindness is where real living begins, so be kind to those in your life and you will realize what is truly of value.”

 

Since 1977, Keiser University has awarded roughly 68,000 diplomas and degrees at its 23 campuses. Over the past 40 years, Keiser has become Florida’s second largest, not-for-profit university in serving approximately 20,000 students.