Nebraska 3rd District Congressman Adrian Smith encouraged McCook Community College's graduating sophomores during commencement ceremonies Friday morning to live a life committed to someone or something other than themselves.

Graduation ceremonies at MCC opened with a moment of silence in honor of MCC teacher Kasey Jo Warner, struck and killed by an alleged drunk driver on Oct. 3, 2007. "We will remember you, Kasey Jo," said Mid Plains Community College President Dr. Michael Chipps.

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Congressman Smith told 77 MCC graduates that an individual who volunteers his/her time and talent has the opportunity to make the greatest impact on others' lives and their communities. "Those who serve others are a rare commodity," Smith said. Smith admitted there would be "natural worries" as graduates leave school and pursue their dreams, but, he urged them, look forward to the future and "go bravely into the new world" armed with their experiences -- good or bad -- thus far.

Negative experiences, Smith said, can build character. "Positive experiences can inspire you to make changes," he said.

Remembering a card that a friend sent to him, Smith shared its sentiment with graduates, "Good thing happen to those who wait. Great things happen to those who get off their butts and go for it."

Student representative and graduating sophomore Curtis Hensley said that MCC turned into "a large family ... 'a tribe' ... a new second home" for him during his time there. They celebrated together - remembering sports successes -- and healed together -- remembering teacher Kasey Jo Warner -- he said.

Hensley asked his fellow graduates to remember one thing from his speech as they go on their separate ways: here, at MCC, they gained the skills they will need to pursue the careers of their choice. "We are friends and family here," he said. "because we are the McCook Community College Indians."

Loretta Hauxwell, MCC's family and consumer science and psychology teacher, won the first-ever "Dr. Gene A. Budig Outstanding Faculty Award." Hauxwell's letter of nomination from fellow educators calls her "a master lecturer and facilitator of learning." The nomination continues, "She is adamant that her students develop crucial thinking skills."

Hauxwell is active in 4-H, her church and community, the letter of nomination continues, and is herself a graduate of McCook Community College.

Hauxwell echoed Hensley's sentiments about "a family" at MCC. "MCC Is part of my family, too," she said. She added that she takes pride in the education students receive at MCC.

Royce Norman, chairman of the MPCC board of governors, congratulated the graduates, telling them, "Your time here will enrich your lives and the communities in which you choose to live."