ECC Stories 2024 - Fay Smith: Success is not achieved alone

Good afternoon, distinguished guests, esteemed faculty, cherished family, friends, and, most importantly, the extraordinary graduating class of 2024.

My name is Fay Smith, and it is an incredible honor to stand before you today as we celebrate this momentous occasion together.

Before I begin, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the countless people who have supported me along this journey. No one walks this path alone, and it is because of their love, sacrifice, and encouragement that I am here today.

I come from humble beginnings—a household of thirteen. Yes, it was tight, but it was filled with love, respect, and an unbreakable bond that my mom instilled in us. As the youngest of eleven children, I learned early about resilience, empathy, and the power of community. My mom, a stay-at-home parent until I was 11, was a beacon of compassion. She cared for anyone in need, no matter their background, teaching me that kindness and humanity are universal.

My dad, a Vietnam veteran and reservist, worked tirelessly to provide for us, embodying perseverance and selflessness. Growing up in that environment shaped me into who I am today: someone who strives to uplift others, to share the little I have, and to be a source of support and encouragement.

However, living with a heart focused on helping others can sometimes feel like a heavy burden. I’ve often felt the pressure of wanting to do more, give more, and be more for those around me. This tension resonated deeply when I watched “The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace,” a movie based on Jeff Hobbs' book.

Rob Peace, much like me, shouldered immense responsibility from a young age. Despite his academic brilliance and a full scholarship to Yale, he felt torn between personal ambition and his desire to uplift his community. Tragically, his story ended too soon. His life was a stark reminder of the delicate balance between serving others and taking care of ourselves.

For me, this balance was tested early. As the youngest child, I often stepped into the role of an older sibling, helping my parents as they navigated the challenges of raising a large family. My father worked endlessly, while my mother worried herself ill about the choices some of my siblings made.

In the face of these challenges, I put my dreams on hold. With only a high school education, I took on jobs to support my family. Later, as I started my own family, I found myself juggling even more responsibilities—caring for my children, supporting my husband, and continuing to help my parents.

But deep down, I knew I wanted something more. I dreamed of becoming a social worker—a career rooted in helping others. So, I made the brave decision to enroll at Elgin Community College (ECC). There were hurdles, setbacks, and moments when I doubted if I could keep going. But every challenge was met with my family's unwavering support, faith, and an incredible network of mentors and advisors.

To my husband, who stayed up with me during those long nights of assignments; to my children, who reminded me of my strength; to my Pastor Patrick Parks, who encouraged me spiritually; to my church family, faculty members like Dean John Long, Sheila, Dr. Raval, Dr. Amber Lay, Dr. Joseph Rosenfeld, and Dr. Liddy Hope—you all saw my potential even when I doubted myself. Thank you for being my village.

Class of 2024, my journey has taught me this: Success is not achieved alone. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, stay focused on your goals, and remain true to your purpose. Challenges will come, but each one will teach you something valuable.

As we stand on the precipice of our futures, I encourage you to lead with compassion, listen with an open heart, and act with integrity. Life will demand much from you, but remember to nurture yourself while making a difference in the lives of others.

Finally, however you connect with a higher power, seek that guidance—it will give you the clarity and strength you need to navigate life’s twists and turns.

Congratulations to the class of 2024! Today is not just the culmination of your hard work but the beginning of something extraordinary. The world awaits the brilliance, compassion, and leadership you have to offer.

Thank you.

Fay Smith, '24

Associate of Applied Science – Human Services