Rep. Capito gives advice to Shepherd grads

May 21, 2001

Rep. Capito gives advice to Shepherd grads

By DAVE McMILLION / Staff Writer

SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. - U.S. Rep. Shelley Moore Capito tried to prepare Shepherd College graduates Saturday for the life challenges that lie ahead of them.

Capito told students they may start out pursuing a dream only to find it is not for them.

But the moment does not mean a total loss, she said. Recognizing diversions from one's path can be as helpful as recognizing the path. Exploring different aspects of life is important.

Borrowing from baseball great Yogi Berra, she told students to take the fork in the road when they see it.

"No greatness will come to you without some element of risk," Capito told the 554 graduates receiving diplomas in the Butcher Center. "I think true happiness is when you are true to yourself."

Capito delivered the commencement address at Shepherd College's 128th graudation exercise. The newly elected congresswoman from West Virginia's 2nd District was given an honorary doctor of humanities degree.

A number of other community leaders and outstanding alumi were also honored.

Robert A. Holmes, a member of the Georgia General Assembly and an alumnus of Shepherd, was also given a doctor of humanities degree. Holmes is also director of the Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy and a professor of political science at Clark Atlanta University.

Dennis L. Barron, senior vice president and chief operations officer at Jefferson Security Bank, received the Outstanding Alumnus Professional Award in recognition of service to the community.

James M. Omps, a retired educator and longtime member of the Shepherd College Alumni Association Board of Directors, received the Alumni Service Award for his support of Shepherd.

Local philanthropist Jessie Hendrix was given the President's Award for her longtime support of the school.

Capito is the only Republican and the only woman member of the West Virginia delegation to Congress. Elected to her first term last year, Capito serves on the House Banking and Financial Services Committee, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the House Small Business Committee.

Capito told students there is more to life than looking out for oneself. She encouraged them to volunteer their talents and resources to meet the needs of their communities.

"What kind of graduate will you be?" asked Capito.

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