Texas' Lieutenant Governor offers advice to ACU students For Immediate Release August 23, 1999 On Aug. 23, Lt. Gov. Rick Perry addressed Abilene Christian University students, faculty and staff at Opening Ceremonies. In his speech, Perry said that the West Texas values of "duty, honor,country, faith and family" would be guides for the 21st century. Perry then challenged students to carry on ACU's legacy. "ACU has already experienced one century of excellence, devotion and inspiration, you will usher in a new century of opportunity, accomplishment and ingenuity," Perry said. Perry offered three "pearls of wisdom" to the ACU community. He spoke first of the importance of education and diversity in the state of Texas. "Our challenge as a state will be that of recognizing our diversity as a source of strength and not division," Perry said. "All Texas children should be limited only by the degree to which they are willing to dream." In addition, Perry warned against "prosperity in the absence of virtue." "Study hard, yearn for knowledge, strive to achieve," Perry said. "But never lose sight of the fact that prosperity is not a function of monetary wealth." Perry's final words of advice were concerning the importance of faith. "Aspire to make this a better world - for your children, for your community, for the people of this state and for the citizens of this entire nation.," Perry said. "Always keep your word. And never lose faith." -30- Archived News Releases - Current ACU News and Events If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact Tom Craig, director of media and community relations, at craigt@nicanor.acu.edu or call 915-674-2692 (cell phone: 665-5469). Last update: August 25, 1999 This page is maintained by Tom Craig, craigt@nicanor.acu.edu. http://www.acu.edu/people/news/990823-perry.html