Guerin inspires SPCS graduates to embrace challenges and give back

At the University of Richmond School of Professional and Continuing Studies (SPCS) commencement exercises held on May 10, Sabrina Guerin, C’17, delivered an inspiring address to the graduating class of 2025. Guerin, now a Senior Financial Education Specialist, shared her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and the transformative power of education. Guerin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the SPCS in 2017.

Guerin recounted her own experience at the university, highlighting a pivotal moment in her Analytical Writing class. “My professor taught me something important: ‘You’re not here to get an A. You’re here to learn, push yourself, and grow.’” This lesson, Guerin explained, underscored the iterative nature of education and the vital role of pushing beyond comfort zones. The experience, she said, was “an invitation to challenge myself.”

Guerin reflected on how the University of Richmond helped her uncover her own potential. “The University of Richmond opened doors I didn’t know existed,” Guerin stated. “It’s here I discovered my potential, built lifelong relationships and gained the confidence to pursue dreams I once thought impossible.” This realization fueled Guerin's commitment to give back to the institution that had so profoundly impacted her life.

Guerin's address also touched on the importance of community and support. “It takes a village,” she said, thanking her family, friends, and fellow alumni board members for their encouragement and support. Recognizing the support network reinforced the collaborative spirit of education and the enduring value of mentorship.

The commencement address served as a powerful reminder of the importance of lifelong learning and continuous personal growth. Guerin urged the graduating class to embrace the next chapter with confidence and purpose. “Today isn’t the end of your journey — it’s the beginning of your next chapter,” Guerin told the graduates. “You are now part of a web that stretches across generations.”

Guerin's message extended beyond personal achievement, urging graduates to measure success by their impact on the world around them. “True success isn’t measured by titles or wealth, but by the lives you touch, the communities you build, and the impact you have on the world,” she emphasized, providing a powerful and lasting takeaway for the graduating class.

The address closed with Guerin’s heartfelt congratulations and pride in the graduating class. “I’m so proud to call you fellow Spiders,” Guerin concluded, leaving the graduating class with a sense of belonging and shared identity.

About Sabrina Guerin

Sabrina M. Guerin, C’17, is a financial education specialist and leader in her community. A graduate of the University of Richmond School of Professional and Continuing Studies and the College of William and Mary, Guerin currently serves as the Senior Financial Education Specialist for Adult Education at Virginia Credit Union. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from the University of Richmond in 2017. With nearly a decade of experience, Guerin is a Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor and earned the prestigious YWCA of Central Virginia’s 2025 Rising Outstanding Woman Award. Guerin’s passion for financial literacy extends to her work with incarcerated adults and her active involvement as president of the SPCS Alumni Association Board of Directors. Additionally, Guerin is an instructor for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at SPCS.