Convocation Feature Story

FACULTY SENATE CHAIR INSPIRES YOUNG AND OLD

 

            Dr. Anthony R. Curtis, Chair of the Faculty Senate, left a memorable impression on the minds of both students and faculty when he delivered an eloquent speech Wednesday morning at the 2008 UNCP convocation. 

            Dr. Curtis, a professor in the Mass Communications Department, extended greetings to all in attendance on behalf of the entire faculty.  Dr. Curtis’ message was clear – the university is an institution where you can truly succeed.

            “There’s no question that you can make it here,” remarked Dr. Curtis.  Standing in front of the crowd at the Givens Performing Arts Center, Dr. Curtis knew his position and took it very seriously.  He realized that the audience was 90 percent freshmen who, without a doubt, were required to be in attendance for class participation points.

            Without missing a beat, Dr. Curtis’ careful words poured forth as he praised the university while informing the students that attending a college is a privilege.  “This is not high school 2.0,” Dr. Curtis said referring to the fact that some students enter college thinking that it will require the same amount of effort as high school.  “UNCP is a place of remarkable practicality,” Dr. Curtis said supporting Chancellor Dr. Allen C. Meador’s comments that the university is an affordable place to achieve higher education. 

            While Dr. Curtis may have planned a moderately lengthy speech, his zest for the job and personality made the words leap off the page and into the hearts of the compelled crowd.  The regalia he adorned were honorable and distinguished.  He seemed to leave no detail out which truly made a difference to students who had never been to a traditional university convocation.  He began with an individual, formal greeting to everyone in attendance. 

            As Dr. Curtis continued his speech, you could practically feel the eyes of everyone upon him.  There was a sense of utmost regard and respect for the professor, who has lead a very interesting life.  The author of many books that have sold millions of copies, Dr. Curtis is regarded as one of the most proficient professors in the nation.  Although very much involved with amateur radio and NASA, Dr. Curtis’ passion is his students.  Never was this more evident than at convocation.

            As Dr. Curtis’ speech came to a close, he stressed the fact that you determine your own future by the decisions you make.  “We believe that you can succeed here,” Dr. Curtis said.