“To whom much is given, much is required. It was really a privilege for a girl like me to be able to attend White Mountain and I am forever grateful for that opportunity. I have not only made lifetime friends, but above all, I was able to fulfill my mother’s dream of pursuing education.”
On Saturday, June 2, Grace Ochieng returned to The White Mountain School campus to share her courageous story with the graduating Class of 2018. Grace came to White Mountain from a small village in Kenya and since graduating in 2008, she has made both medical care and education more accessible for young girls in her village of Lwala. Below is an excerpt of Grace’s speech where she highlights how her studies at White Mountain sparked a lifelong career.
“This privilege enabled me to dream beyond my wildest dream, including pursuing a registered nurse, RN, degree after finishing college. This privilege enabled me to make a tangible impact on reducing the gender gap in education. This privilege made me realize that there is no endeavor too small when it comes to making this world a better place when it comes to social justice. My challenge for you today as you leave this beautiful campus is to hone in on your interest. No idea is too small or too bizarre!
Take that idea, put it into action and the ripple effects will be felt. For as Margaret Mead once said, never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has! Go change the world, make it better than you found it.” – Grace Ochieng ’08
We are incredibly thankful to have had Grace back on campus to send off our graduating Class of 2018. You can find the rest of Grace’s moving speech here.
