“To be successful in this broader and rapidly changing marketplace, it is necessary that you are equipped with the knowledge and skills that prepare you for change. In effect, all of us must become lifelong learners,” said Mary Reaves, vice president of student affairs and dean of students, during her recent address to the May 2012 graduates of Prairie State College (PSC).

Reaves’ address was her last as an administrator at PSC, as she retires at the end of this month.

More than 400 students graduated from PSC this semester with associate degrees and certificates. Approximately 275 graduates participated in the ceremony.

“It is occasions such as this, which serve as an additional reminder to those in academia, as to why we do what we do,” she said.

She told the graduates that, like them, she was looking forward to a “new beginning,” and reminded them that “[their] new beginning includes a new toolset: lifelong learning, vision, thoughts, and influence.”

“I urge you to make outstanding contributions to society,” she added. “You have been equipped to do so.”

She advised that the new toolset students received during their time at PSC was the key to success, and told graduates their charge after graduation was to commit to lifelong learning, develop an ethical framework to guide them through life, develop their own measure of success, and promote diversity.

“Make your mark. Make an impact. Make a difference,” she added.