Like many 18 year olds graduating from high school, Quindell Williams ’11 thought he knew exactly what he wanted to do and where he wanted to do it. “‘Thought’ being the key word there,” he told December graduates during his remarks at the Oswego Alumni Association’s Commencement Eve Reception on Dec. 14 in the Sheldon Hall Ballroom. Back in 2003, his plans to go to college far away from his hometown of Syracuse, to study political science and to become the first black President of the United States, were thwarted in the years to come. He didn’t like the college nor the major he chose, and well, Barack Obama attained the presidential goal before Williams had a chance. But often our goals become clearer when we remove what we don’t enjoy and discover what we do well, Williams said. For the two-time, Emmy Award-winning photojournalist, that meant switching from political science to studying broadcasting. “At SUNY Oswego, I learned how to write for broadcast, shoot and edit creative video, or direct a full newscast, from very knowledgeable professors and professionals in class,” Williams said. “I also participated in student-run organizations like WTOP-TV and WNYO radio as an exciting way to hone my skills outside of the classroom. And most of all, I networked with my peers and created lasting friendships and relationships that have helped me beyond the campus.” During a career fair at Oswego, Williams met Central New York television celebrity host and news anchor Laura Hand, which eventually led to his current position as a news videographer at CNY Central, the NBC/CW/CBS affiliate in Syracuse. In that role, he has covered many exciting news stories, including NCAA basketball tournaments, visits by U.S. Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, and lake effect snowstorms off Lake Ontario. “Now in my career in television, I am provided with the opportunity to apply all the things I have learned along the way, in hopes that it might help one of you in your journey,” Williams told the graduates. “Sometimes you have to fail at the thing you thought was for you, in order to succeed at the path that is truly meant for you. So, have the courage to redirect if need be, be ready to seize the moments and trust the process, toward your success.” Williams’ remarks were a highlight of the annual Commencement Eve Reception that also included a champagne toast to graduates by Oswego Alumni Association Executive Director and Associate Vice President of Alumni Relations and Stewardship Betsy Oberst. More than 500 SUNY Oswego students were eligible to participate in the Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 15. Read about the paths some of those graduates planned to take.