The graduation ceremony Friday at the University of South Alabama’s Mitchell Center was a milestone.
The 1,300 new graduates who received their diplomas caused the university to surpass 100,000 total graduates.
The commencement speaker was Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, who is entering his final year in office. He announced earlier this year that he will not run for a fourth term in the August 2025 municipal election.
“It was truly an honor, and I thank president Jo Bonner and the USA Board of Trustees for the opportunity,” Stimpson said.
Stimpson centered his admonitory remarks to the graduates on one of his favorite quotes. Motivationalist Charlie "Tremendous" Jones once stated, "You will be the same person in five years you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read."
Stimpson then shared with the graduates a few of the books and relationships that have changed his life over the years, and he encouraged them to go out and find books and people who will challenge them to be better — “better students, better professionals, better spouses, better siblings, better friends… better people.”
In an apparent surprise to Stimpson and family, USA president Jo Bonner handed out one additional diploma. He and the school awarded Stimpson with an honorary doctorate.
Stimpson reacted to the award, saying, "[A] significant honor to be recognized by such a fine institution that continues to play a critical role in Mobile’s growth and development. I am happy to accept this distinction on behalf of the countless employees, partners, mentors and family members that have contributed to the city’s success during my tenure as mayor. It is impossible to achieve the kind of success we’ve seen in Mobile without a supportive family and a dedicated team. Congratulations, Jaguars!”
Stimpson has not as yet announced as to his plans for his post-mayoral life.
Bonner is a former congressman from Alabama’s first district, which includes Mobile. He also served as chief of staff for Gov. Kay Ivey.
Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler writes about Alabama’s people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former Alabama Public Service Commissioner and State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.
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