Governor inspires graduates with tales of his own challenges

At St. Thomas ceremony, Abbott tells students to leave a ‘unique fingerprint’

Gov. Greg Abbott in a brief and lighthearted speech Saturday encouraged graduates of the University of St. Thomas to make their mark on the world around them.

“What will matter is the unique fingerprint you leave on this world,” he told the 1,041 graduates seated at NRG Arena. “Ultimately, your life will be remembered by the impression that you leave.”

In a speech lasting less than 15 minutes, Abbott said little about the is- sues of the day or politics, choosing instead to poke fun at himself and give a little laugh to the friends and families of the class of 2016.

“You have no idea how much joy they feel for you,” he said over a sea of black caps and gowns. “So, today would be a great time to ask for money.”

Before his commence-

ment address, Abbott received an honorary doctorate of letters. His wife, Cecilia, who has three degrees from the institution, was given a distinguished alumnus award. The Abbotts have been married 34 years and have one daughter.

‘Steadfast courage’

In a speech about overcoming challenges, Abbott told the oft-repeated story of how he was paralyzed by a falling oak tree while jogging in Houston in 1984.

“Every time I tell that story, I watch people shake their heads, and I know they’re thinking, ‘How slow was that guy jogging to get hit by a tree?’ ”

In a wheelchair since that incident, Abbott somberly noted that he was told at his law school graduation that he would be confronted by challenges that he could not foresee.

“Little did I know that the picture of me walking across the stage to receive my diploma would be the last picture of me walking,” he said.

Robert Ivany, UST president, welcomed the governor as graduation speaker.

“He is a powerful role model of selfless service to the people of Texas and of steadfast courage to pursue his dream,” Ivany said.

‘Such character’

Observers gave the governor high marks and credited him with being open about. his personal story.

“His background was interesting,” said John Lastrapes, a 57-year-old Missouri City man attending his daughter’s graduation. “And I was really impressed by his wife. I didn’t realize her deep roots with the university.”

His wife said Abbott’s speech affected her emotionally.

“I always get choked up at hearing about people having a tragedy in their life and coming out of it with such character,” said Colleen Lastrapes, 56.

Others said he was an inspiration to the recent graduates.

“His overall speech was good advice for the students,” said Yessica Hui, 33.