Published 06/01/2026
Student speaker David Samuel walked to the podium, admittedly nervous. Before more than 260 fellow graduates and an audience of a few thousand, he shared the story of his families’ hardships and journey to the United States, and ultimately, his journey to Blue Ridge.
Though he was born in Mozambique, and has lived in a handful of places, David and his family consider Harrisonburg their home. Learning English by watching YouTube and listening to music, David also developed an interest in taking apart electronics and trying to put them back together at an early age. That hobby eventually turned into a job in the BRCC Computer Repair Shop, and now, an Associate of Science degree in Computer Science from Blue Ridge. David will transfer to Radford University this fall to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Cybersecurity.
“Some of us are parents. Some of us are still the children in our families. Some are transferring to new schools, and for others this may be the final step in our academic journey,” he said. “But no matter what our paths, we all carry different stories, struggles, and experiences that brought us to this moment.”
David recognized not only his own challenges along the way, but also those of his classmates. “The challenges we faced whether in our personal lives, our families, or even late nights with homework, those are the bricks that build who we become. So do not stop building,” he encouraged. “Maybe graduating today feels like finishing a house. But don’t stop there. Go build another one.”
Shenandoah Valley native Katie Frazier, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia, was the keynote speaker. After pointing out how the industry effects so many aspects of daily life she asked, “But what if we went just a little deeper and thought about the other lessons you can learn from a farmer, and how they might help you in your quest to impact this region and Virginia as you take your next steps out into the world?” She went on the share five life lessons she’s learned from a career working with farmers – Patience, Collaboration, Resilience, Be Careful, and to Find Your Vocation.
“This world needs farmers and it needs public servants. But it also needs prepared minds, hearts for service, and ready hands to do good, valuable work,” she said. “And that is the bright future each of you have ahead of you, thanks to your time and experiences here.”