Luis Alverde Montemayor, founding Rector of Anáhuac University’s Querétaro Campus, encouraged Troy University graduates on Friday to dare to dream boldly about their futures.

Alverde spoke to two spring commencement ceremonies inside Trojan Arena on Friday as nearly 1,000 students across the University’s five colleges received their diplomas.

Alverde has held his current position since 2006 and has more than 25 years’ experience working for the Anáhuac University Network. Anáhuac and TROY enjoy a partnership that allows for student and faculty exchanges.

“Over the past two years, students and professors have crossed borders from Mexico to Alabama and from Alabama to Mexico, carrying dreams, knowledge and culture with them,” Alverde said. “This bond enriches us all.”

Alverde challenged graduates to think globally. 

“I encourage you to adopt a global vision. Recognize that outside America there are countries like Mexico seeking partnerships and shared growth,” he said. “I dream of young Americans with a global mindset. I dream of a region defined by peace and mutual respect.”

For graduates, there is no better time than now to dream big, Alverde said.

“Become entrepreneurs. Put your creativity to work,” he said. “It is the perfect time in your life to try it. You have fewer obligations in this time and your imagination is alive. Dare to dream. Dare to build and start something bold.”

Alverde encourage graduates to always appreciate their families and build deep connections with others.

“Be grateful to your families. Sometimes young people believe they can accomplish everything on their own, but without the support of those who are here today and even those who couldn’t be present, you wouldn’t be who you are,” he said. “Cultivate your friendships. Build deep, meaningful connections with those around you. It is not enough to stay in touch through social media. Make time to meet in person and look them in the eyes. As human beings, we need to give and receive love.”

Alverde reminded graduates that they were not alone and that support was always available when needed.

“Remember that you are not alone. Many young people insulate themselves, hiding behind their phones,” he said. “When you feel lonely, have the strength to ask for help from your friends, your family and professionals. They are ready to support you. Ask for help whenever you need it.”

In closing Alverde encouraged graduates to take care of themselves and others.

“Take care of your soul, body and mind. Find moments of reflection, moments of silence, moments with God,” he said. “Take care of your body – move, exercise and play sports. Take care of your mind – read, learn and grow – so when you get older you will feel truly proud of the person you’ve become.

“Remember the world was made to love – to give it, to share it, to make others happy – and you have that gift. Be generous. Look for someone to help and always give them your best,” he added. “Remember that God exists. I invite you to seek that connection, and always keep God close to your heart. In this spirit of gratitude and faith, let us continue building bridges between our nations.” 

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. and members of the Troy University Board of Trustees conferred on Alverde the honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

A native of Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico, Alverde studied Industrial and Systems Engineering, and holds a Masters in Senior Management from Anáhuac University’s México Norte campus. When he arrived in Querétaro and founded Anáhuac University’s new campus, he had to develop it from scratch, including getting approval to use the land and admitting the very first students and professors. Since then, he has led the campus’ growth through to the present day. Anáhuac University’s Querétaro Campus has had 15,710 students and is currently in the national top 10 in academic results, number 2 in sports wins (according to the CONADEIP ranking), and is number 2 in graduate examinations performance (according to CENEVAL) among private universities.