A family reunion, a Hornell High School concert, and the Alfred University commencement all shined
A COLUMN by Shawn Hogan,
I had an inspiring and uplifting past week. First, I was at a sibling’s reunion in Nags Heads, NC, a beautiful setting for beautiful event. Seven out of eight Hogan siblings were able to attend with respective spouses. We are blessed as they range in age from 63 to 79, and all are in relatively good shape, all with sense of humor intact. This event started my week. I never thought that the inspiration and the blessings would continue through this past weekend.
Second, I had the honor and pleasure to attend the Alfred University Commencement and watched with pride as my grandson received his MBA, that was inspiring enough.
Additionally, one of the Senior Class speakers had an inspiring and emotional speech about her journey to Alfred University and her ultimate honors degree in Materials Science from the College of Ceramics. This brave young lady selected Alfred University sight unseen. She is a citizen of El Salvador, who had to apply for a student visa, and she received the visa 3 days before classes began. She flew into Rochester, New York by herself, leaving family, friends, and country behind, and arriving 1 day before classes began. She had to get herself to Alfred, New York, not knowing what to expect nor knowing anyone. The rest is a story of human kindness, grit and determination. The family she found at Alfred and the support she received is a testament to what can be accomplished with a kind word, empathy for others, and a desire to succeed. I do not know this young lady, but I am forever grateful to Marcella Peccorini for her willingness to share her story. It gives me hope for our Nation’s future. I thank Marcella and Alfred University for making my Saturday morning so inspiring.
The final inspiring event was the Spring Choral Concert at Hornell High School. It was pleasure to attend this event. There was so much talent and hope being exhibited in the faces and the voices of hundreds of young people under the inspired direction of Christopher J. Van Leeuwen. The performance was not only inspirational, it was phenomenal and almost spiritual.
The concert was a perfect example of what can be accomplished when people believe in each other and pull for each other. There was no judging, just a love of music and getting strength and inspiration from each other. I had three grandchildren perform as well as my daughter who performed (along with 72 others) in the Alumni Chorus.
Thank you to my family, Marcella Peccorini, Alfred University, Christopher Van Leeuwen, the student performers and the Alumni chorus for the inspiration and enlightenment. Most importantly for shining a bright light of hope and caring in a world that desperately needs more bright lights.
Shawn Hogan is the former Mayor of Hornell NY, a leader in the Democratic Party, husband, father, and grandfather. You can reach him anytime, shawnhogan74@gmail.com
