“Never doubt your success.” – Chiara Williams, Commencement Student Speaker
Chiara Williams, a graduate of Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake, is graduating from Tidewater Community College with an associate of science in Social Science and will serve as Tidewater Community College’s 78th Commencement Exercise Student Speaker. This fall, Williams plans to continue her education at Old Dominion University to complete her studies in clinical psychology.
Here at TCC, Williams served as the President of the Student Government Association at the Chesapeake Campus. Williams was a Second Year Leader of the Gear Up To Lead Leadership Program, providing guidance and mentorship to first year students. Gear Up allowed Williams to assist the team that led the Elizabeth River clean-up project.
“Being part of Gear Up taught me how to be a leader. I have said throughout this process that I am most proud of becoming a leader of others as well as myself.”
When the opportunity to become the Commencement Student Speaker came, Williams saw it as a chance for continued growth.
“This moment will allow me to make a positive impact amongst my peers and hopefully inspire those who come after me. I hope to provide a message of self-worth, growth, and commend those who are celebrating an astounding achievement as I know this journey was not an easy one for most,” said Williams.
Williams was also a member of the TCC Student Art League and was able to support the league while sharing her art with the community. She additionally had the opportunity to be a mentee of the GNC Mentor Program.
During her time at TCC, Williams came to the realization that you should never doubt your success. She saw and learned that there is someone else always wondering how you achieved what you did. She encourages the Class of 2024 to push on and be the example.