EAGLE PASS, TX – Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) donned a cap and gown for the first time this weekend when he delivered the keynote address at the Sul Ross State University commencement ceremony. Despite being a PhD candidate, Congressman Gonzales has never participated in a formal graduation ceremony.

Watch Congressman Gonzales full speech here.

 

“For me, this is the very first time in my life I have worn a cap and gown,” said Congressman Gonzales in his address. “I did not graduate high school so I did not walk the stage at graduation. I got my Associate’s degree in the mail because I was fighting in Afghanistan. I got my Bachelor’s degree in the mail because I was having one of my children. I got my Master’s degree in the mail because I was at a new duty station. So I never had the opportunity to experience a graduation like this and let me tell you – it makes me excited for the future ahead. I can feel the positive energy and it is so exciting to see what all of you are going to accomplish in your life.”