t’s been a really cool adventure getting to this point,” said Lucas Wolf, one of this year’s commencement speakers. “Guilford’s been a launching pad to open my eyes to my own possibilities in the world.”
Graduation is upon us and the Convocation and Celebrations Committee announced on March 19 that Kenyona “Sunny” Matthews, Lucas Wolf, and John Allred will be this year’s student commencement speakers. The speakers were nominated and elected by their graduating peers.
“I was surprised to be picked from so many wonderful people,” said Matthews. “I didn’t think I was going to get it.”
Wolf was equally as surprised and pleased to be selected. “It’s really humbling and an honor,” he said. “I can’t say enough words about how honored I am.”
Matthews, a traditional student from Greensboro, is a Political Science, Philosophy, and African American Studies triple major.
Matthews has not only been an active member of Guilford but of the Greensboro community as well. She is a project coordinator for two programs, one for after-school tutoring and the other for prison literacy.
At Guilford, Matthews is the president of BUS and a member of the Anti-Racism team.
“I don’t think at any other school I’d be able to be … a leader in so many different programs,” Matthews said.
She has also been a manager at Hardees, supporting herself and paying for school. After graduation, Matthews plans on working with Americorps. Her long-term plans include attending law school in the state.
“In every situation (Matthews is) thoughtful,” said senior Brynne Kirk. “Whatever she’s going to say, I’m going to listen to.”
Senior Lindsey Gallagher echoed these sentiments. “I think Sunny is extremely well-spoken and exemplifies a commitment to our community which we all strive for here at Guilford,” Gallagher said.
Wolf, a longtime friend of Matthews, is excited to be speaking with her. “It’s really special to share the stage with someone that is so important to you,” he said.
Wolf is a traditional student who transferred from Colorado State University three and a half years ago. He is a Spanish and African American Studies double major who has played an active role in Guilford’s international programs. He spent two semesters abroad in Guilford’s Guadalajara program, once as a student and once as a T.A.
“From the moment I stepped onto this campus I’ve tried to be as involved as possible,” said Wolf. His involvement extends past the academic and into the social.
“I think he’s a really great guy,” said senior Natia Rostomashvili. “He’s friends with everyone.”
In continuing with his interest in international studies after graduation, Wolf will attend the Peace Corps.
His long-term plans include graduate school for a degree in International Affairs.
Guilford’s prominent CCE program will have Allred, a Business major, as their speaker.
“For CCE students, Guilford College is …a life-changing experience,” said Bill Stevens, Dean for the CCE program. “John fits into that mold.”
Allred has made marked contributions to the CCE program as the Vice President of the CCE Student Government Association. Allred has also worked on CCE homecoming events and helped plan the 50th anniversary celebrations of the CCE program.
“Guilford College is a valuable experience for nearly all CCE students and John will exemplify that,” said Stevens.
“[These] students are very active members of Guilford,” said Anne Lundquist, chair of the Convocation and Celebrations Committee. Lundquist will be helping the students work on their commencement speeches.
“I’ll keep it light and sweet and to the point,” said Matthews.
“The pressure’s definitely building to say something spicy and cool,” said Wolf. “It’s got to be suave and smooth.”
Alumnus Christopher Benfey, ’77, and President Kent Chabotar will join Matthews, Wolf, and Allred in addressing the May graduates. The ceremony will be held May 8, at 10:30 a.m. on the Founders Quadrangle.
“Now it’s time to just get up there and talk and walk away from it all,” said Wolf. “It’s kind of crazy.