Commencement speaker Kevin Liles, a national entertainment CEO and motivational speaker who has shaped the careers of many entertainers, brought his firebrand message Friday to Jackson State University by exhorting the Fall Class of 2015 to “make it happen” – a refrain throughout the ceremony designed to inspire them as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
“I’m not here to talk about impossibilities. You have a choice. Change the headlines,” said Liles, citing the number of African-American men absent from college campuses due to tragic circumstances. As one who studied electrical engineering, he particularly cited the dearth of African-Americans with degrees in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
In a ceremony Friday morning in the Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center, he indicated that the real secret to success is to be yourself rather than anyone else. As one who has directed the careers of many big-name entertainers and sports figures, Liles said he knows firsthand the number of people who try to imitate others on the road to success.
Liles is founder and CEO of KWL Management, partner with the 300 Entertainment music label and founder of RSM Sports Management group. Also, he has advised some of the world’s most talented entertainers and athletes, including Beyoncé, D’Angelo, Estelle, Trey Songz and NASCAR sensation Darrell Wallace Jr.
“I prepared myself for opportunity. I pulled up my pants as I got older, and I put on a suit, Liles said.” Even when faced with a closed door, he urged graduates to view it as a catalyst for change and focus on the right mindset, not just talent and charisma. Instead, he told graduates to believe in God, be kind and “treat people like you want to be treated.”[pullquote align=”right”]”I prepared myself for opportunity. I pulled up my pants as I got older, and I put on a suit.” — Kevin Liles,
music industry CEO[/pullquote]
JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers called it a proud day for graduates, family and friends. She congratulated the honored group of more than 750 for being “only one in 100 people on this planet to get a college education.” Furthermore, she said, “Everybody thanks you for preparing to do good for the rest of your lives. Today’s celebration is in your honor and also a day of thanksgiving to everybody who helped you along by playing a part in your success, however small. The Jackson State University family will be with you wherever you go and wishes you the best.”
After today’s celebration, Liles also reminded those receiving degrees that it’s their duty to give back because “with success comes great responsibility – to family, community and country.” He said this is the moment when those entering the workforce can start to make a difference.
“You’re not just reading the book,” he said, “you’re writing the book. Your generation is already reaching greatness.” Liles recounted the story of a 17-year-old computer programmer and entrepreneur who successfully sold an app for $30 million to Yahoo! “So, ask yourself what’s your dream by challenging minds and changing lives.”
Even when success finds them, Liles urged freshly minted graduates to never lose touch with humanity and never stop learning. “Pick up the phone and say hello. Ask how you can be of assistance to others and take that model everywhere you go.” He reminded them that their education does not stop after they cross the stage to receive their diplomas. Just like there should be a war on poverty “there should be a war on the lack of education,” Liles said.
“Ultimately, the way you live your life will determine your greatness.” At the conclusion, Liles urged the crowd to recite in unison: “Make it happen; make it happen, make it happen.”
