Trustee Andrew Gonzales addresses Akins graduation with advice on growth and kindness

Under the warm glow of the auditorium lights, the air buzzed with excitement as graduates of Akins Early College High School gathered to celebrate their achievements. Among them was Andrew Gonzales, a trustee on the Austin ISD Board of Trustees and a proud alumnus of Akins. As he took the stage, the audience erupted in applause for the school’s talented choir, setting a jubilant tone for the evening.

Gonzales, reflecting on his own graduation years ago, shared heartfelt advice with the graduates. He emphasized the importance of growth and change, reminding them that who they are today is not fixed. “You will grow. You will stumble. You will shift course, and all of those are good things,” he said, encouraging the young adults to embrace their evolving identities.

He also spoke about the significance of kindness, urging graduates to practice it with courage rather than mere politeness. “Nice avoids conflict. Nice says what is popular, not necessarily what is true,” he explained, highlighting the value of standing up for what is right.

As he concluded his speech, Gonzales reminded the graduates of their connection to public education. “Schools like Akins are special and that they need protecting,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that public education is a shared responsibility. His words resonated deeply, leaving the graduates with a sense of purpose as they stepped into the next chapter of their lives, ready to make their mark on the world.