We hit the road knowing traffic would be heavy the further north we reached, but we were heading to a ceremony that we must reach. Approaching exit 227 on Interstate 5 things looked grim as traffic merged in to one lane. This was the result of the recent collapse of a bridge in Skagit Valley allowing traffic to head towards Bellingham, the Canadian border…As the pace continued to decrease, and the sun beat boldly on my forearm, I glanced out the window reminiscing about the first time I traveled the roads throughout this area looking to visit Western Washington University. This college campus would become a new home for my daughter for the next four years. Time passed quickly, and as we inched through the frustrations of Friday traffic, our heart rates quickened as we realized we would be late for the ceremony. However, after more than three hours of travel we finally reached our destination. My daughter seated in the second row of students, spotted me as I proudly glanced around the room, not only to celebrate her on this day but to become part of history for Western Washington University as I watched the first Ethnic Student Center commencement ceremony for the college.
Taking my place amongst the other guests along with my family I took in the beautiful surroundings of the room. A large banner boldly distinguishing the event name, black white and silver balloons graced the room; books sharing future dreams for the graduates graced each table, along with masterfully placed centerpieces. The décor stated intimate elegance on this day. Speakers recounted events, shared hopes and in some cases caused tears for the pride they felt. One by one the graduates approached the microphone to share their heartfelt thoughts. Many students voiced the common belief that this intimate loving ethnic organization had made this graduation day ceremony possible for them in many ways.
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Organized in 1991 on the Western Washington University campus, the Ethnic Student Center organization has become a home away from home for many of the students. Many have found a safe haven filled with others of diverse backgrounds. Open to people of all backgrounds, many members find their confidence level elevated through the support system they acquire, and often proceed on to positions of leadership. Listening to several stories, I was amazed and impressed at the events shared and the demonstration of successes found. Lives were changed, knowledge gained, foundations set and endless possibilities were voiced. I felt proud. That day I was clearly reminded we cannot be so quick to pass judgment on others because the true story in one’s book is not always visible to the reader initially. I will forever be grateful for being able to participate in an event that was historic for one of our state colleges, and the stories shared will be forever cherished.
