Atlanta United Way President Milton Little Jr Encouraged Graduates at Clayton State Commencement to Engage in Acts of Service

(December 9, 2025) - Clayton State University continued its Fall 2025 commencement celebrations with the second of three ceremonies, held Saturday, December 6, at 9:00 a.m. The morning gathering honored the resilience, determination, and achievements of the newest graduates, surrounded by proud families, faculty, and supporters. 

The ceremony’s keynote address was given by Milton Little, Jr., President of United Way of Greater Atlanta and a distinguished national leader in community development. Little invited graduates to pause and recognize the support systems that carried them to this moment, calling those loved ones “threads in the tapestry of your journey.” He spoke candidly about the challenges faced in the Greater Atlanta communities, including barriers to economic mobility, equitable education, and stable housing. He reminded graduates that their education equips them to be a part of the solution. 

“Education is not just about personal advancement; it is about empowerment,” Little said, urging graduates to use their knowledge for the greater good. He encouraged graduates to engage in acts of service, give generously of their time and talents, and commit themselves to strengthening the communities they call home. “True success isn’t measured just by what you achieve for yourself. It’s measured by what you achieve for humanity,” he told the Class of 2025. Little told graduates that this moment captured the essence of Clayton State’s motto, “Dreams. Made Real.” by proving that dreams don’t stay in the clouds; they take shape through effort, persistence, and courage. 
 
Student speaker Neonta Hayes, an accomplished graduate pursuing dual master’s degrees in International Business and Data Analytics, delivered a powerful address. Hayes, a mother of three and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., spoke about the gratitude and perseverance that shaped her journey. She thanked her parents, siblings, and sons, whom she called her “why”, for the unwavering support that made her journey possible.  
 
Hayes reflected on the perseverance that defined her classmates’ journeys, acknowledging the late nights, financial struggles, setbacks, and moments when simply getting out of bed felt like an achievement. Quoting Prophetess Juanita Bynum, she urged her fellow graduates to step boldly into the future: “This is the season in your life where you square up, and you don’t blink.” She encouraged her fellow Lakers to see their degrees as more than credentials but as symbols of resilience. “This degree is not merely paper. It’s a trophy etched with your hard work, your sweat, and your tears,” she said. Drawing inspiration from pioneering politician and activist Shirley Chisholm, Hayes reminded graduates to create their own opportunities when necessary: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” Her message resonated as a reminder to face the future with courage, resilience, and audacity.  
 
President Dr. Georj L. Lewis closed the ceremony by commending graduates for overcoming challenges and beating the odds. He emphasized the generational impact of earning a degree. He encouraged graduates to see their success as part of a broader mission of social mobility, for themselves, their families, and their communities. As he congratulated the class, he reminded them that they are now part of a powerful network of more than 39,000 Clayton State alumni. “Although your time as a Laker student has come to a close, you have the distinct pleasure of joining a new group of Alumni, so this is not the end. This is only the beginning,” he said. “Go Lakers.” 

The Saturday morning ceremony reflected not only academic achievement, but also strength, courage, and hope that define the Class of 2025. With tassels turned and celebrations underway, graduates stepped confidently into the next chapter of their lives, ready to serve and make their dreams real.