Q&A with our 2016 Commencement Speaker Tamron Hall

Q&A with our 2016 Commencement Speaker Tamron Hall

With Commencement 2016 right around the corner, students are getting excited to walk across the stage and into their prosperous futures! One of the most exciting parts of the night is when the Commencement Speaker takes the podium to share advice, hope, and wisdom with our graduates. 

This year, we are excited to welcome award-winning journalist Tamron Hall! Ms. Hall is co-host of NBC News’ TODAY and anchor of MSNBC Live with Tamron Hall. We recently had the opportunity to speak with Ms. Hall about what she’ll be speaking about at Commencement, her thoughts on adult education, and more. See her thoughts below: 

What were your initial thoughts on being chosen as Peirce’s 2016 commencement speaker?
I lived in Philly for many years so naturally it was a huge honor to share in the joy of completing this journey with the students at Peirce. 

You’ve served as a commencement speaker at other colleges before; what do you enjoy most about being part of the big day? 
 Seeing the families and friends who prayed and rooted for the graduate beam with joy! It’s incredible to witness.

Can you give us a taste of the themes you’ll be speaking about at Commencement? 
It’s not over until it’s over.  And by the way it’s never over because you will find new goals and new dreams to pursue.

Since graduating from college in Philadelphia, are you able to visit often? How will it feel to be back?
I’m on the board of trustees at Temple University so I am there often. I also have friends who I am very close to who live in North Philly.

What do you remember the most from your own college graduation? 
I remember being afraid and excited at the same time. It was very emotional.

What are your thoughts on education and its importance, particularly for the adult student?
My mother had to leave college when she became pregnant with me. She didn’t get her degree until years later. It’s so important that we focus on childhood education, but I believe it’s also our responsibility to encourage the adults who also want to pursue their goals. Why does learning or the opportunity to learn need to stop at the door of the youth?

In over twenty years in broadcasting, you’ve covered a range of topics across different platforms—from local news, to Deadline, to the Today Show.  Did you always know that you wanted to be a reporter?  
Yes, it has always been dream. I majored in broadcast journalism. I wasn’t sure how it would turn out for me. I knew the passion was there and I was ready to commit to this profession.

What advice do you have to our upcoming graduates about following their dreams?  
How do you give advice to people you want advice from? What they’ve accomplished inspires me. I am sure there were many nights of juggling work and family and yet they did it!

Any tips for our graduates as they approach the big day? 
Enjoy the moment. Soak up your success!

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