This marks my return from my self-imposed hiatus. I have taken a few months off to tend to other projects, and though many of them remain incomplete, I felt it was time to start writing again.

One thing my absence has done is given me lots to say. But I am not going to say it all here. I will save some for later. Let’s talk about the most immediate things.

First, a shout out to all of the students who graduated from Hampton University today. A special congrats to the graduates of The Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications at HU, where I’ve had the pleasure to be an instructor to some very bright and talented students who have now moved into the next phase of their life. I am certain you will make a tremendous mark on your profession and society in general. Just remember, success is not merely determined by what you salary is. It matters how much you enjoy what you are doing and whether you are making a difference in someone’s life. Helping others by giving of your talents is more rewarding than any salary could ever be, I’ve learned over the years. Keep that in mind as you go forth in search of your next mountain to conquer. And remember, I am always here to help you in any way possible. And if I cannot help you, I will find someone who can.

Speaking of graduation, you have an advantage over most of your peers. You will always remember who your commencement speaker was: President Barack Obama.

I can’t remember who spoke at neither of my commencements; and I don’t think it all has to do with age. I’m jealous of you. But I am glad that I was able to be a part of such a special day.