Dear neighbors,

As you know, I do not often talk about myself. Rather, I use the privilege of the megaphone I've been given to advocate for you and our fellow Washingtonians.

Today, however, I want to share with you an honor I received. I seek not to boast, but to express my gratitude and what I feel is the meaning of this occasion beyond my role in it.

I had always intended to return to George Washington University, my alma mater, to pursue a PhD. In fact, in 2019 I contacted the university president to inquire about the process for enrolling in a doctoral program. Soon, preparations were being made, but then COVID reared its ugly head and, like so many people, I had to forestall my plans.

Four years later, this past Sunday at GW's Commencement, I was graced by the presence of thousands of students who persevered. They were awarded degrees earned through hard work and by overcoming challenges. I joined those students in celebrating the completion of one journey and the beginning of the next when I was conferred a Doctorate in Public Service, honoris causa.

Of course, for me this is a dream come true. Most importantly, education is the foundation of nearly everything we seek to achieve through public service. It means a lot to me that George Washington University recognizes the vital connection between education and the ability to uplift ourselves and one another.

I share my award with every graduate, student, educator, family member who supports their student, and the countless people who supported me through my education and to this very day.

Knowledge empowers us, and those of us who choose public service as a vocation must never stop educating ourselves.


In service,

Vince

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Photo credit: Washington Post

Photo credit: GW/W. Atkins