Persevering

Armand Dichosa '94

"You, the distinct Class of 2020, are given a distinct challenge. You are our nation's answer to future challenges…You will continue our work and undoubtedly, surpass us. You will discover new facts and forge new paths.”

Bob Yerkes '66

"As a math major at LMU 1962-1966 there was always a conflict between what the professor was saying and the need to take accurate notes: i.e., take time to mentally process what the professor says and you miss what he says next. One of the great advantages to on lineeducation, in my humble opinion, is that you can pause and rerun recorded lectures, thereby producing accurate notes and absorbing all that the prof has to offer. This is analogous to the idea that difficult text must be read several times in order to gain comprehension."

Phil Silva '95

"Life and the things it throws at you will surprise you. Don’t despair, roll with it...You will get through this."

Steve Goodman '71

"Corona virus is simply a rainy day. A very dark rainy day, but after the rain their will be a sunshine. Let's be prepared to be the first person up to enjoy that sunny day with family and friends."

Jamie Higa '17

"Hello Class of 2020! I am sorry that your final year at LMU was physically cut short. Regardless of the current situation, I encourage you to continue to fight for your goals and being a representative for others in your community. Keep striving for greatness and support those around you and our alumni family. Congratulations on this amazing accomplishment and good luck on your future journey."

Kara Dismuke '16

"Life is hard and life is not fair. Through the pain that comes from accepting these two facts, though, I hope that the chaos, confusion, and ugliness of life do not prevent you from pursuing truth and creating a life full of both meaning and community. God is still good, and I hope He will continue to nurture your faith right now (and always) so that you can confidently say: in and through Christ, it is well in my soul."

Dan Lynch '63

"I graduated in ‘63 with a math degree. Went to UCLA for a master’s in math. 10 years later I happened to work on the creation of the Internet. Who knew 50 years later it would help you finish your degree! So go out and change your world. And enjoy it."

Keyon Mitchell '10

"Keep your head up during these trying times. I hope that you can find the strength and peace within you to push forward to achieve your dreams. However, also be gentle with yourself and know that some days will be easier than others. I am sending you positive energy and love!"

Kathleen Chilton '11

"As my hospital colleagues brace for an onslaught of patients with COVID-19 that is thankfully yet to really hit in Australia, I am reminded of what I learned at LMU about living with and for others. We are all in this together, even though because of social distancing we’re also apart. It will end. To the seniors who are facing the uncertainty of life beyond COVID - have faith because God knows the future, He’s already been there. Have hope because He promises brighter days will come. And in a world that is constantly changing, rest in the perfection of His unchanging love. Go Lions!"

Richard Helgeson '74, '76

"I am a ‘74 and ‘76 graduate in EE. I had a successful career, consulting in satellite communications until a significant economic downturn in 1989. We lost everything- house, income, friends. We had to move to New York and start over in 1994. Because of the skills learned at LMU from outstanding mentors like Drs. Foxworthy, Rude, and Page - to name a few - we were able to start over in a new state and on a new path. I eventually became a faculty member, chair, dean, and provost. I am now semi-retired and teaching online. This is the end of the semester and my students are struggling. Hang in there. Do not give up. You can get through this. With the help of your professors, your family, and your faith, you will be better on the other side of this pandemic."

Dave Harrington '75

"The LMU students I’ve worked with are dedicated and mature. I can only offer the advice to persevere. I know they’ll get through this and be stronger for it."

Karen Dial

"I'm proud of the way LMU and our community in general is lending a hand where necessary -- high school and college students are volunteering at local non profits, neighbors are leaving food and care packages at front doors, neighbors are chatting over the fence, making sure everyone at home is OK. The outreach and care has been incredible! Plus a few local restaurants staying open for curb side pick up -- relieving us from cooking every night. All of this makes such a huge difference in our world! Love abounds on campus and community!"

Derek Weber '15

"In these uncertain times it's easy to fall out of touch with friends and family we can't see with the same regularity. It can make you feel down and make these days drag longer. Make it a point to stay connected."

Steve Bucknam

"I know you are facing very challenging times of uncertainty; but remember what you have learned at LMU and always give your best efforts to serve your future employers and the communities that they serve."