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Colette Irwin-Knott ’81

In Quotes

Spoken on Campus

Fall 2022

We not only give you a career for life, but a life where your success is measured by more than a paycheck … It’s measured by the selfless love you show other who won’t have as many zeros in their paychecks as you will.

José D. Padilla, J.D., addressing students at the 2022 Opening Convocation

 

I see hope, despite darkness in our world. God does not always call the equipped. He equips the called.

Colette Irwin-Knott ’81, keynote speaker, December Commencement

 

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your generosity, as it has given me an opportunity to pursue higher education in its fullest capacity. As you know, Valpo continues to be an exceptional school, as it provides its students with a continuously evolving education coupled with an unparalleled sense of community.

Jack Meyer ’22, offering thanks to donors to Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future

 

I contend that Dr. King wanted us to see our differences, and appreciate them, and understand that that’s what makes this country great.

Ed Gordon III, MLK Day Celebration

 

Your commitment to the Valparaiso University legacy allows students like me to continue and share it within different communities. Again, I couldn’t thank you enough for your confidence and willingness to help me achieve my goals.

Abbey McCumber ’24, offering thanks to donors to Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future

 

During my experience in the Black Student Organization, we’ve built and applied constant celebration and remembrance into our driving mission. This is marked by uplifting the voices of African-American culture, promoting the history of influence and work that has dismantled oppressive barriers, and educating ourselves and our fellow counterparts with the hope of uniting our humanity and creating a more equitable community.

Tékeidra Masters ’24, BSO Vice President

 

This scholarship has been integral in establishing a solid financial foundation for myself during my undergraduate career. Simply put, higher education is a possibility for me because of this scholarship. Without this scholarship, I would not have been able to become fully engaged within Valpo’s amazing campus community, which I have thrived in and made bonds to last a lifetime.

Matt Kennedy ’22, offering thanks to donors to Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future

 

You are thoughtful leaders, generous with your time and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those around you. You have endured and continue to endure a difficult and uncertain time in history, but you have risen to the occasion.

José D. Padilla, J.D., Valparaiso University President

 

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