Special to The Journal

Alabama's Superintendent of Education told Troy University graduates Friday, Dec. 8, they better be armed with more than a diploma when they seek a successful career. They should also bring a positive attitude.

Dr. Joe Morton, Alabama Superintendent of Education, served as the keynote speaker for Troy University's fall commencement exercises held at Sartain Hall.

&#8220The success of school, business, industry and government or whatever is built upon a mission everyone understands, goals that are well communicated, evaluated and reported and the total commitment of everyone involved to constantly improve,” Dr. Morton said. &#8220Assuming that people have the required skills such as you possess with your degree today, what sets apart the winners from the losers is attitude.”

Dr. Morton encouraged the graduates not only to have positive attitudes, but to surround themselves with people with similar outlooks. He advised the graduates to be prepared to call on them for support when the going gets tough.

&#8220Just make a list of the people who will encourage you, who will stand by you, who will not pull you down but rather lift you up, and be ready to call on them when you need them,” Dr. Morton said.

Dr. Jack Hawkins, chancellor of Troy University awarded diplomas to approximately 280 students from 17 U.S. states, one U.S. territory and 12 foreign nations. Dr. Hawkins also recognized seven students from China who will return to their home country to complete their studies as part of a special dual-degree program between Troy University and partner universities in the People's Republic of China.

Crenshaw County:

Brantley (master's degrees):

Connie W. Upshaw

Dozier (bachelor's degrees):

Heather D. Walden

Glenwood (bachelor's degree):

Jonathan Catrett

Highland Home (bachelor's degree):

Connie A. Sexton (Magna Cum Laude)

Honoraville (master’s degree):

Robert L. McGough

Luverne (associate degrees):

Sheree A. Hughes

Luverne (bachelor's degrees):

ReTania L. Brown, Tamara M. Byrd, Randy N. Davis, Joshua B. Wheeler (Cum Laude).