Jeffery Forlines, a BSC graduate (class of 1987) and President and CEO, First Century Bank-Wytheville and Fort Chiswell, VA, delivered the College's Associate Commencement Address. He told the capacity audience of 1997 graduates, their families, and their friends, "I have gained an appreciation for the rich tradition of Bluefield State College. I ask you to be proud of the education you have received from Bluefield State College. I was prepared beyond my expectation."
Forlines challenged graduates to assist others seeking a college education, to believe in community, and to choose mentors who can help them along life's way. "Finally, I challenge you to understand the value of your reputation," he said. "Please ensure that, when people speak of your defining moments, the words 'integrity, value, fairness, vision, and respect' are used."
BSC President Dr. Robert Moore extended congratulations to the graduates, their families, and friends. He told the graduates, "We are confident that the contributions you will make to your region, society, and to those around you will enhance the lives of those you touch."
Bluefield attorney J. Franklin Long, a BSC graduate (class of 1972), delivered the College's Baccalaureate Commencement Address. A member of the Bluefield State College Foundation executive board and past president of the Mountain State Bar Association, Long's address centered on "failures, experiences, and habits."
He told the graduates and guests, "Name and then forget your failures, claim and benefit from your experiences, and ingrain and develop good habits. We build our characters from the bricks of habit we lay, day by day. Each brick seems like a little thing, but before we are aware of it, we have built a house we have to live in."
Charles W. Mossor, who received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology degree, was recognized as BSC's 1997 valedictorian and Fred J. Weber, Jr., who received a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, was honored as the BSC class of '97 salutatorian.
Twenty-seven returning members of the BSC class of 1947 were honored upon the 50th anniversary of their graduation from the College during the Commencement Exercises.