Speech Closing with Leadership Story

And as you all move forward in your new positions, remember to be more than just managers and supervisors.

Be a mentor and role models for those who will be coming up behind you.

Before I conclude my speech today, I want to leave you with a story from an unlikely source, but a powerful example of leadership, King Arthur of Camelot. As the story goes, King Arthur didn't sit at the head of a long table where others were of lesser importance. Instead, he instituted a round table, where every knight, every voice had equal value and importance.

This round table was not only a piece of furniture, but a symbol of unity, of equality, and shared responsibility. King Arthur knew that a table without a head, without a distinct beginning or end, allowed for the continuous flow of ideas, for everyone to feel valued and empowered, which is the true essence of leadership.

You, the graduates, are the embodiment of King Arthur's round table in our modern world. Each one of you, in your role, brings unique perspectives, skills, and experiences that make you not only vital to your department, but to the community at large. Like the Knights of the Round Table, your voices are of equal importance, your commitment shared, your duty clear.

To fulfill your leadership role, remember that no one sits at the head in the work we do. We are all equal contributors to the safety and welfare of our communities. We need to listen, respect, and value each other's perspectives to build a safer and more secure society.

As you step into your roles, I challenge you to...…who serves.

I will also urge you to remember the story of King Arthur and the giant of Mont Saint-Michel. Embrace the giants you will encounter along your path, face them with courage and determination. They will shape you and become part of your story, your career, your legacy. But remember - you're not doing this for glory, but to protect and serve your community.

Thank you for stepping up, for dedicating yourselves to such a noble profession, and for choosing to be the protectors of our society.

Congratulations, graduates. We are incredibly proud of you. May your journey be marked by courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Go forth and make a difference. Remember, you are the knights of our modern world, guarding our communities with dedication and integrity.

God bless you all, and God bless the noble profession you…