Opening address
Jason Davenport MCIPP MIoD Chair, CIPP
Good morning, Lords, ladies, gentleman, honoured guests and, of course, our graduands.
I would like to talk to you this morning about what you have achieved and why this is not the end; rather it is a significant milestone in your journey. Today is all about reflection, rejoicing and consideration of next steps.
Sitting here today provides an opportunity to reflect on your earlier vision – you have made what you once thought impossible, possible. You have moved through a three-step process, you have justified (you weathered the storm), you have certified (you showed your diligence and have elevated yourself amongst your peers) and you have accomplished – that is what today is all about: reflection and thanks for what you have achieved. Now, what may be next? With knowledge and wisdom, you have to create impact. Each of you will be role models for your family. The pride they have in you is evident here today – with their support and encouragement through the long hours, sitting at the desk (or kitchen table), let’s not forget their unconditional love to you and the support they have given. It is times like these that we think about those around us, who help to guide us, give us strength to continue during life’s toughest tests and act positively in all manner of situations. Lessons in life often come from the most humble of places. As an example of that, my grandmother knew my wife was a keeper, simply by her smile. She knew I liked to laugh and could see Louise had fun running through her like electricity. Some of the stories my grandmother used to impart to my children about surviving in WW2 and making ends meet, will stay with them throughout their lives and help to keep them grounded. She always said it is never wrong to do the right thing. Reflecting as I have on my grandmother who is long-since passed, I realise we are all in ‘the line’ without knowing it. We never know how many people are before us. We cannot move to the back of the line. We cannot step out of the line. We cannot avoid the line. So, while we wait in line: make every moment count. Make priorities. Make the time. Make your gifts known. Make a nobody feel like a somebody. Make your voice heard. Make the small things big. Make someone smile. Make the change. Make peace. Make sure to tell your people they are loved. Make sure to have no regrets. Make an impact. And make sure you are ready. Earlier in the CIPP events calendar we held our Annual Conference and Exhibition and our Scottish National Conference. It was at the latter I met Andrew Black, who spoke for us on the power of positive thinking. I wanted to reflect a number of his words in my opening address to you today. Andrew spoke of releasing yourself from the chains of a to-do list, and rather focus on having a to-be list. What do you want to achieve today and why is it relevant? Not just a tick list approach, but a focus on a positive growth mindset. Andrew also talked about being glad to be alive – enjoying the moment and recognising how blessed we are. He spoke of positively recognising five things each day that he was glad to have – he started simply with having a roof over his head, being able to afford heating, having a fridge and having milk in the fridge, so he could enjoy a cup of tea. Here are mine for today: 1. Being here at Graduation with all of you, to celebrate and congratulate your achievements. 2. I am looking forward to catching up with you later today to hear of your plans for the future. 3. Cake and champagne – always a great combination. 4. Being amazed by each new day – and giving thanks for it. 5. And really importantly, recognise life is there for the taking, get involved, do as much as you can, give as much as you can and the more you give, the more you will receive. Andrew stated that it is good to learn that life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass – it’s about learning to dance in the rain.
With knowledge and wisdom, you have to create impact
Finally, to our audience – remember this is a celebration – it’s mandatory to clap, cheer and whoop. And to our graduands – congratulations, and I hope you thoroughly enjoy your moment.
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