Today, May 31, 2024, I will have the honor of delivering the commencement address for Berkshire Community College (BCC). I graduated from BCC’s nursing program back in 1995. As a matter of fact, the day of my nursing pinning ceremony was May 29, 1995, the day of the Great Barrington, Ma tornado which was twenty-nine years ago. I sit here and wonder to myself, where has the time gone. Being asked to speak at the graduation is a full-circle moment for me. It is a time of reflection for me. It is a time to appreciate all that has been given to me and to embrace the successes and the failures that have gotten me to this point. It is a time to remember all those people who supported me and mentored me and helped me gain the confidence and strength I needed to push forward. It has been a journey of righting the wrongs I have done by living my life dedicated to uplifting others and the opportunity to give forgiveness to those who have harmed me. This amazing journey for me started the day I chose BCC to advance my education.
One of the things I have learned over the last twenty-nine years is that everyone has a story, and everyone has challenges. As a nurse I have had the honor to serve people from all walks of life. As I have taken this journey, I have learned what it means to honor the dignity of others. I have learned how to recognize and address my biases and I have learned that everyone’s journey is unique and that just because I was able to change my life it does not mean that anyone can. I don’t know their circumstances. I just listen and do my best to give support and hope and that it may open a door to opportunity for them. I want to do what many have done for me.
This commencement address is not about me. This day is for those who will be graduating. This day is for those friends and families who support them. Today I want to celebrate an amazing institution that has given so many the opportunity to change the course of their lives. I want to be like BCC and the thousands of graduates over the last sixty-four years. I want to make a difference.
I am a proud graduate of Berkshire Community College class of 1995, the beacon of hope for so many to change the course of their lives.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Nelson Mandela
Charles Redd RN
Dignity Freedom Fighter
Dignity Freedom Fighter 