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'Establish guiding principles,' apostle exhorts graduates

"Establish a set of guiding principles for your life," Elder Richard G. Scott of the Council of the Twelve told graduates of LDS Business College June 9.

"Most of you, I know, have already done that. If some of you haven't, I suggest it be first priority," Elder Scott admonished.Speaking in the Assembly Hall on Temple Square, Elder Scott was the main speaker for the college's 107th annual commencement exercises. During the evening, more than 200 degrees and certificates were awarded to 189 graduates.

During his remarks to the packed congregation, Elder Scott spoke of 10 principles or suggestions for how to have success in professional, family or in personal life.

First, he exhorted graduates to "crystallize principles that are enduring for your life. One I would suggest that really, if understood, lays an essential foundation is to be honest. Be honest with yourself, with others.

"The second principle is never compromise your standards, never," Elder Scott continued. "One of the ways that Satan leads those who have great ideals and ambitions for success in life to paths that don't produce success or happiness is to begin to tempt slight and small departures from principles."

Third, Elder Scott encouraged those listening to "cultivate a sense of humor. The prophets do. They live sometimes under tremendous pressure and recognize the responsibility they have before the Lord, yet they have a tremendous sense of humor.

"Four, be loyal. Select a job with leadership you can respect and work that really matters. But wherever you work, give more than is expected. Admit mistakes when they occur."

"The fifth point is to be truly successful. What do I mean by that? Success is not centering your life on wealth and acquiring material things. You'll need some of that, and you'll be blessed with it because of your labors. Success comes from understanding the teachings of the Savior and our Father in Heaven and weaving them in all of the things that you do.

"The sixth suggestion is to serve others. Sharing with others professionally the best you have in work and in counsel is a way to find success.

"Seven, smile. Everybody has problems, but nobody wants to know about them. They do appreciate a smile.

"Eight, don't complain. If you haven't learned already, you'll soon learn that life isn't fair, but it's charged with incredible opportunities if you know how to find them.

"Nine, always, always have a Church assignment. Don't ever be too busy to serve others and serve in the Lord's work."

In conclusion, Elder Scott said: "If those nine are hard to remember, just remember this last one. Choose to make the Lord the center of your life, His example your model for life, His teachings your handbook for life."

Conducting the graduation ceremonies was Stephen K. Woodhouse, president of LDS Business College. In commending the graduates, he said: "I want to congratulate all of you for taking the steps necessary to continue your education and receive the degrees and certificates that will be awarded tonight."

Being honored as the 1994 Distinguished Alumnus was Keith R. Clark, director of group sales for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nevada. Brother Clark is a 1983 graduate of LDS Business College with an associate's degree in business administration. He was also student body president at the college. He went on to receive a bachelor's degree in communications with an emphasis in marketing from the University of Utah in 1986. In his second year of employment, he won the Lombardi Second Effort Award, one of the highest sales awards in Blue Cross and Blue Shield. Brother Clark has also been involved in Junior Achievement and Scouting programs.

Providing music for the graduation was the LDS Business College Institute Choir.

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