Dear Ortonville-Brandon Community,
Over the past 5 years, Brandon has honored 11 unbelievably accomplished graduates on our district’s distinguished alumni wall of fame. While their careers and resumes are impressive, who they are as people has truly outshined these accomplishments. Hard work, dedication, humility, appreciation and service to others are a few of the many common traits that are inherent in our past winners. With this in mind, I would like to share a few of the many lessons that we have learned from Brandon’s most successful graduates.
1) “Humility, that low, sweet root, from which all heavenly virtues shoot.” Thomas Moore – In an era that is at times more self-centered than in the past, the humility of the 11 honorees on the wall of fame is incredibly refreshing. It would be very easy to be boastful with such accomplishments, but these Brandon graduates give praise to others and express appreciation for those that cleared a path for their success.
2) “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” Henry Adams – In each of the acceptance speeches, we have heard stories of Brandon teachers going above-and-beyond for our honorees. Teachers inspired, challenged, supported and did so much to make a difference in the lives of their students. As they watch their students making such an impact on the world, their teachers can take some pride in being part of the journey.
3) “No matter how high up you get, never forget where you came from.” Beeru Singh – Our honorees have traveled the globe, have met people around the world and have experienced things that most of us could only dream of. In all of their experiences, each honoree has talked about the important role of their families but also their broader family in the Ortonville-Brandon community. Their appreciation is certainly a testament to the small town connections that have been made here.
As our students walk by the Ed and Diane Donaldson Distinguished Alumni Wall of Fame, we certainly hope that they are inspired to accomplish great thing in their lives. While this is true, perhaps the greatest lessons that can be learned from our honorees are not captured on this wall. Humility matters! Appreciate those that do so much to help you along the way! Never forget where you came from!
Have a great month of October and Go Blackhawks!!!
Sincerely,
Matthew S. Outlaw
Superintendent for the Brandon School District