Dionna Lei Lazo - Leeward CC Commencement Celebration 2022 Graduate

Psalm 61: 2: "Lead me to the rock that is higher than I."

I am fortunate enough to say that I am the first one in my family to graduate from college. There were many obstacles thrown at me throughout the years of being here. I had those who did not support me going to college and had some who doubted my ability to do greater things in life from the start. I had many reasons to quit and give up, but it was God who gave me the strength to persevere and, for that, I am blessed beyond all measures.

Years ago, I made a promise to my mama and papa that I was going to graduate from college.

Unfortunately, my papa is no longer here with us, but I know that if he was still here today, he would have been so happy and proud.

And mama, I hope I made you extremely proud of all my accomplishments in life. You and papa raised me since I was a little girl and now it's my turn to do you a favor and do all that I can to help you out. Also, please stop being mad at me for going to the gym all the time. I was trying to look my best for this special day. The gym runs in my blood, yessah!

Lastly, I'll continue to be the person I always needed growing up. I know life is not going to get any easier but I entrust everything to God for his plans are always greater than my own.

All my sacrifices have paid off; those full-time work and school hours to provide for myself have paid off, and I am looking forward to closing this chapter and starting a new one.

Thank you to my ohana and friends, my job at Leu Okuda and Doi, and the staff here at Leeward for supporting me through college and my goals in life. I hope I made you guys proud and I am looking forward to seeking greater opportunities and adventures in life.

Au'rite, let's go travel now. Oregon, here I come, cheehuu!

A Hui Hou

Dionna Lei "Dee" Lazo