North Greenville University
Mayor Rick Danner was presented an honorary Doctor of Christian Leadership by interim North Greenville University president Dr. Randall J. Pannell.
Danner shared with the assembled group that for every 100 students nationally that started their bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degree the same time these graduates did, only 42 percent will be graduating. For the first generation graduates, only 25 percent will graduate.
He told the graduates that the primary reason they are here is because they were committed to receiving their degree. “Your commitment and dedication has brought you to this point as well as your pursuit of your degree. Fifty eight percent of the people that started college when you did will not finish,” said Danner. “While the excuses may vary, the reason you are here today is because you were committed to graduating.”
Danner said Zig Ziglar, American author, salesman and motivational speaker, states that if you are committed, you will do whatever it takes. If you are merely interested, you will do whatever is convenient. “When I think back of all the many blessings that have come my way in my life, nothing seems to match the commitments I have made, and kept,” he said.
Danner told the graduates that the most distinguishing characteristic of success is the perseverance of commitment. “You must decide what is truly important to you and commit to only those things.”
He shared three areas of his life that have become critical to his happiness, success, well being, and spiritual growth. They are career, community, and faith.
“Graduates, it is impossible to obtain success in life or realize your goals without understanding the importance of commitment. It is a personal quality. It (commitment) brings about a sense of meaningful purpose to your life,” Danner said.
Danner’s commitment to the City of Greer as Mayor since 1999, has helped direct the city through one of the most progressive periods in its history.
Danner was presented an honorary Doctor of Christian Leadership by interim president Dr. Randall J. Pannell and board of trustee’s chairperson Bill Tyler.