Adversity can make you stronger, Florida Lt. Gov.
Carroll tells audience at IRSC

By Kim Hughes•Posted February 23, 2011 at 10:31 p.m.

PHOTO BY JUAN DALE BROWN, JUAN DALE BROWN JUAN DALE BROWN/TREASURE COAST NEWSPAPERS Adrienne B. Jefferson, Indian River State College's associate dean of minority affairs, welcomes Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll, right, the honored guest speaker Wednesday night for IRSC's Black History Month program in Fort Pierce. At far left is IRSC President Edwin Massey.

FORT PIERCE - Lieutenant Gov. Jennifer Carroll had an important message to share with those who attended the Black History Month program at Indian River State College on Wednesday evening: Don't quit When times get tough.

After receiving a standing ovation from an audience that filled to the auditorium's 430 seats, Carroll, the first woman African-American elected to the office, described how adversity can make you stronger.

Enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1979, Carroll said she initially thought she'd be out within a few years. Instead, she spent 20 years, rising from the ranks of an enlisted jet mechanic to retire as a lieutenant commander aviation officer.

When she decided to pursue becoming an officer, Carroll recalled that her supervisor was not supportive.

"Many of us would take the easy way out when somebody gets in our way," Carroll said. "It was up to me during those times to pave the way for others. It wasn't easy, but it was worth it." Carroll's strong faith was evident. She posed the question, "What if Jesus Christ had quit? If he could endure all he did to save us, who are you to quit?"

She referenced an audio-visual presentation earlier in the program that highlighted African-Americans who had made historical contributions in the areas of sports, the military, politics, education, science and entertainment.

Those who had been shown on the screen, Carroll said, had persevered despite obstacles. She challenged the young people in the audience to "be the faces I see in the future."

Edwin Massey, IRSC president, said that the college was fortunate Carroll was able to fit the event into her schedule. "I think the lieutenant governor is a great role model for our young people," Massey said. "Her message was right on target and very inspirational to all of us."

Larry McNealy, a 19-year-old IRSC student, said "I really enjoyed her message. It was very straight to the point and very informative. I was inspired by her words."

The Rev. John Lee, who provides staff assistance to U.S. Rep. Alcee Hastings from Florida's 23rd District, was impressed with what Carroll shared. "The message was very on time, educational and what our young people need," Lee said. He hoped it would "encourage them and give them the endurance to move forward."

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