Grambling State University’s 2024 graduates received an empowering send-off as music mogul and entrepreneur Dr. Percy “Master P” Miller delivered the keynote speech at their commencement ceremony. Speaking to 365 graduates at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center on December 14, Master P shared powerful lessons of perseverance, education, and hope.
“Education is so important, and I love that we can change, we can grow,” he began, inspiring the crowd as they prepared to enter a new chapter. Master P emphasized that while the graduates may have faced challenges, their hard work had brought them to this moment of success. “A lot of people have given four or five years to incarceration; y’all gave it to education,” he said.
Master P Shares Message of Resilience and Accountability
Throughout his speech, Master P underscored the importance of personal responsibility and accountability, two key values that helped him rise from adversity to success. “When you look into the mirror, just know you are your only competition,” he encouraged. “Whatever you can dream of, you can make it come true—just have a plan and a purpose.”
Master P celebrated the graduates’ achievements, urging them to take pride in their journey. “There have been trials and tribulations, ups and downs, early mornings and late nights studying,” he said. “But it all led up to this moment.” He challenged the graduates to apply the same discipline and consistency to their future endeavors.
The No Limit founder also reminded the audience of Grambling’s rich legacy. “Alumni like Erykah Badu, Doug Williams, and Willis Reed walked these same grounds,” he said, highlighting those who made lasting marks in their fields. “Class of 2024, I can’t wait to see how y’all are going to leave your mark on the world.”
Quoting Proverbs, Master P shared, “Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.” He described wisdom as essential for achieving greatness. “Wisdom is supreme,” he declared.
Closing his speech with a call to action, Master P said, “The future is yours. It’s in your hands. Now go show the world what Grambling State greatness looks like.”
The graduates erupted into applause as they reflected on the inspiring words from a man who turned dreams into reality, showing that anything is possible with focus, discipline, and vision.