Erin Hynes | Staff Writer
July 26, 2023
On Friday, July 21, GSP Murray State campus welcomed Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to campus. Beshear spoke to scholars as the first Governor’s Scholars Program alumni to be elected Kentucky Governor. It is tradition for the acting Governor to speak to scholars at each GSP campus, and Beshear is no exception. Scholars were not officially made aware of Beshear’s visit prior to the event, so to some, his appearance was a surprise.
Governor Beshear spoke to scholars in a relatable manner, sharing a bit about his personal political experience and the impact his own GSP experience had on him. Beshear mentioned that the friends you make at GSP are lifelong friends. Some of Beshear’s current friends are ones he met at GSP, and for many of today’s scholars, the same will ring true in ten to twenty years.
Following his speech, Beshear opened the floor up to questions from scholars. Many asked about his personal opinions on policies such as the creation of new energy plants across Kentucky, the building of a new battery factory in Kentucky and gun control. Beshear was asked how we can be informed voters in upcoming elections, as many of us have reached registered voter age. Beshear responded by saying that voters should stay informed on the news from multiple news sources, and make the best informed decision you can. He reminded scholars that even when the decision seems impossible, you can make the choice to vote for someone.
At the closing of Beshear’s convocation, he mentioned that we are the future of the Commonwealth and of the nation. As scholars part ways at the end of this week, Beshears words will ring true as they start senior year and work towards their future.
