R. Gerald Turner: Hello, I'm Gerald Turner, president of SMU and I'm delighted to extend my warmest congratulations to you on your graduation from the eighth grade at Good Shepherd Episcopal School. Much like SMU, Good Shepherd has a strong tradition of nurturing well-rounded students who actively contribute to their communities. As you move forward in your educational journey to other high schools, know that the values you've embraced will steer you towards success in these schools and beyond. Again, congratulations. Make good grades wherever you go. And I hope to see you in 2028 on the Hilltop. So, Pony Up!
Vicky Nguyen: Hello graduates of Good Shepherd. It's Vicky Nguyen. I'm with NBC News and I just wanted to wish you a big congratulations on your eighth grade graduation. You have all of high school ahead of you, some more hard work on the way. But that's something you guys are used to. And I just wish you continued success. And my one piece of advice is be of service, be of service because as much as you put out into your community and into the lives of the people that you will encounter and touch even more will come back to you. I promise. Give yourselves grace. Be kind and best wishes with your exciting futures. Congratulations.
Aaron Powell: Hi, Good Shepherd eighth grade class. My name is Aaron Powell. I am the CEO of Pizza Hut. It's my job every day to connect people through the joy of pizza. I want to share just a couple of brief words as you're making this incredible transition from eighth grade off to different high schools. Here is what I wish I would have known when I was in your chair, what I would think about. Three simple things. Number one, be yourself. Being yourself is what it takes. Nothing more, nothing less. Don't let people tell you what to be, be yourself. Number two, do what you love. The reality is whether as a student or in the workforce later in life, you'll spend more time on whatever your chosen occupation is than anywhere else and it should not be a chore. You should do what you love. Number three and importantly, be kind. To this day, the people who were kind to me, I remember when I was in the eighth grade and the people that I was kind to remember me for being kind. So I wish you all the best, all of the success and my sincere congratulations.
Nancy Lieberman: Hi everybody. This is Basketball Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman. And I heard that Good Shepherd Episcopal School is having a graduation. That's really a good thing. So, congrats to the eighth graders. That is absolutely phenomenal. I'm so proud of each and every one of you and for me to be able to do this video for you, you inspire me, so great job. Congratulations and go on to bigger and better deals.
Eric Johnson: Hello graduates. I'm Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson and I just want to congratulate you on graduating eighth grade. I'm proud of you and I know your friends, families and teachers are proud of you too. I'm sure moving on to high school is exciting for you. But I know it can also be a little bit scary moving to a new school. But know this, I have faith in you and you all will do great. Once again, congratulations and have a wonderful and safe summer.
Arike Ogunbowale: Hi, I'm Arike Ogunbowale, guard for the Dallas Wings. On behalf of my teammates, I would like to say, congratulations to the Good Shepherd Episcopal eighth grade, graduating Class of 2024. Best of luck on your journey ahead. I know your futures will be bright with endless possibilities. Congratulations and Go Wings!
