Northeastern State University

Related Links

P. Willy's Last Lecture

After serving 11 years as president at Northeastern State University, President Larry Williams gave his final official farewell April 21 at Beta Field during the cookout and “P. Willy’s Last Lecture” hosted by the President’s Leadership Class.

“The students have been the focus and passion of my life’s work,” President Williams said. “I’ve been called many things over the years. Some of them I won’t repeat, but I think the title I will cherish the most is ‘P. Willy.’”

Excerpts from the president’s speech:

• · Tonight, my dream and prayer for each and every one of you is that you will find a career that will create the passion I have enjoyed in mine.
• · Find a reason for living.
• · Find a mate you can trust and who will stand by you and share your vision.
• · Remember the things that really make you happy and do them as often as possible.
• · If you choose to have children, understand that being a parent is the most important responsibility you will ever have.
• · Keep current with the politics of the day. Listen to the news and read, read, read.
• · Don’t ever take anyone you love for granted.
• · Work for and with people you respect.
• · Forgive people, including yourself.
• · One of the most important things you can do for me is to embrace President Betz and work with him to continue our vision for NSU. I have faith that each of you will do just that.