May 12, 2026

Commencement Speech from Andy Schmidt, Co-Valedictorian

Good morning.

Faculty, families, friends, and fellow graduates,

When I think back on these past few years, one word comes to mind: dedication. Not just the dedication it takes to show up, but dedication in the way that we’ve thrown ourselves into every challenge, every opportunity, every late-night study session, knowing that the effort we give today shapes who we are tomorrow.

For me, that dedication has been like a compass, always pointing me in the right direction. On the soccer field, I learned that true success is rarely defined by a single moment. Instead, it’s about staying disciplined, being confident, having a positive mindset, and giving it your all 100% of the time, not just for yourself, but for those around you. As I coach young athletes now, I see that lesson again: the impact of proper guidance, positive encouragement, and persistence is sometimes greater than the result itself.

In the classroom, that same dedication led me through a double major in accounting and sports management. Two very different worlds, with numbers on one side, and organization and collaboration on the other. However, both of these disciplines taught me the same principle: excellence is built not on talent alone, but on relentless effort, discipline, and a refusal to accept mediocrity. My internships that I worked through Wheeling University gave me a glimpse into the real world: the accounting office taught me precision, structure, and integrity; while sports management reminded me that leadership is as much about empathy, patience, and mentorship as it is about the results.  

Throughout it all, my faith has been a guide. Colossians 3:23 reminds us: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” That verse has shaped my approach to everything I do. Dedication isn’t just about achievement. It’s about giving your whole heart to what matters most.

Looking around today, I see a class that has faced challenges. We’ve navigated through a rapidly changing world, adapted to new ways of learning, and supported each other in times of uncertainty. And yet, here we stand together: stronger, wiser, and ready.

As we step forward, I encourage my classmates to carry this dedication into everything we do. Whether it is on the field, in the office, or in our communities, let us strive not just for success, but for meaning. Let us be leaders who inspire, thinkers who innovate, and friends who support. The road ahead will have setbacks and uncertainties, but I have no doubt that the Class of 2026 will face them with courage, resilience, and integrity.

Congratulations, everyone. We’ve earned this moment. And now it’s time to take all that dedication, all that hard work, and turn it into a future we can be proud of.

Thank you.