Deseret News | 18-year-old college graduate shares her testimony with thousands

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18-year-old college graduate shares her testimony with thousands

Congratulations! | 7:19 a.m. July 26, 2009

Congrats, Sarah! What a wonderful accomplishment, particularly at an HBCU. I admire your courage to attend (and excel) at your school. Most in your situation would not attend such a school, because they'd be afraid of standing out and they wouldn't want reverse prejudice/discrimination. Perhaps, you are evidence that America really is changing and that racial walls are crumbling. And it's cool you shared your testimony. You sound like a gutsy young lady. Good luck in your future endeavors!!!

Inspiring Testimony | 8:27 a.m. July 26, 2009

Sarah, I really like how you stand up for what you believe. It is very inspiring. Thanks and keep on standing up for the truth!

David in CA | 8:49 a.m. July 26, 2009

Congratulations Sarah!!

You are a Great Example of living the Gospel!!

You're a shining light for the Lord and the Church!!

Lord Bless you!!

Comments continue below

jojo | 12:21 p.m. July 26, 2009

Is his for real? Proselyting in a grad speech? Sound like this kid needed a few more years before college--immature and myopic at best...

O2bRich | 2:08 p.m. July 26, 2009

JoJo, you're way off base. This young lady stood for something in her speech. Kudos for her. So many graduation speeches have devolved into a litany of jokes and stories that don't uplift or encourage the graduates at all. Some reminiscing is okay but not the whole speech. What a waste and a wasted opportunity. This is supposed to be a time to be encouraging. She showed maturity beyond her years by encouraging her fellow graduates to be better people, to contribute to society, and do what they can to make the world a better place. Good for her.

Starla | 2:19 p.m. July 26, 2009

Oh get over yourself jojo. Reread the quote. This young woman quoted the prophet, using words that would be good advice for anyone and everyone. She is a wonderful example.

Honesty | 10:13 p.m. July 26, 2009

Religious people have the right to free speech, too.

Californian #1@94131 | 10:22 p.m. July 26, 2009

** "Is his for real? Proselyting in a grad speech?" **

Oh for Pete's sake.

Where do you see her proselyting? If she chose some wise words from the Pope or the Reverend Billy Graham or Archbishop Desmond Tutu, what would you accuse her of?

She is to be commended for going out of her comfort zone in more ways than one. She sounds like an outstanding young lady who will make a difference in the world.

I hope we can expect the same of you, jojo.

Oh puhlease, jojo | 11:14 p.m. July 26, 2009

If she were to quote Mohammad, would you have commented? I doubt it.

Inappropriate | 1:46 a.m. July 27, 2009

I agree with jojo, declaring your religion in a graduation speech is odd and inappropriate. You wouldn’t hear a valedictorian stand up and say, “I’m Catholic and I’d like to quote my hero, the Pope.”

The article states: “Telling people where her parents met gave Pace one more opportunity to talk about the church.” That is clearly proselytizing.

Californian #1@94131 | 10:25 p.m. July 27, 2009

** You wouldn’t hear a valedictorian stand up and say, “I’m Catholic and I’d like to quote my hero, the Pope.” **

Maybe you would, and I'd have no problem if they did. The world can use more people who have firm beliefs in what is right and are not afraid to say so.

To Californian | 11:21 p.m. July 27, 2009

"What is right" is a matter of opinion.

A valedictorian speech is not the time to bring up divisive political and religious beliefs. It is meant to be an occasion of unity, optimism, and brotherhood for all.

Anonymous | 11:52 a.m. July 29, 2009

Claflin University?

That is like high school with ash trays!

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