As valedictorian, I would be giving a short speech after receiving my diploma—something I had prepared weeks ago, but revised significantly the previous night.
Dean Harrison approached the podium for the conferring of degrees. The business school graduates were called first, with special recognition given to those with highest honors.
When it was my turn, I rose from my seat and made my way to the stage, conscious of the hundreds of eyes following my progress.
“Harper Williams,” Dean Harrison announced, “graduating summa cum laude with highest distinction in business administration.”
I crossed to center stage, shook his hand, and accepted my diploma.
I expected him to continue with the next name, but instead he held on to the microphone and added:
“Ladies and gentlemen, I have the extraordinary privilege of announcing that Miss Williams is not only our class valedictorian, but has recently been recognized by Forbes magazine as the youngest self-made billionaire in this year’s graduating class, having founded Secure Pay, a financial technology company revolutionizing cryptocurrency transactions.”
A collective gasp rose from the audience, followed by enthusiastic applause.
I risked a glance toward where my family was sitting. My father had literally dropped his program, the pages scattering at his feet. My mother sat frozen, her hand covering her mouth.
Cassandra was staring at me with her jaw open—for once completely disengaged from her phone.
The dean gestured for me to take the podium for my valedictory address.
As the applause continued, I adjusted the microphone and unfolded my speech. Looking out at the sea of faces, I spotted Jessica and Professor Wilson beaming with pride in the front row.
My family remained stunned in their seats. My father now bent over, retrieving his fallen program with shaking hands.
