For the graduates walking across the stage at Troy University’s Dothan Campus Spring Commencement, their academic achievements and professional plans come along with civic responsibilities.

Dothan Area Chamber Foundation President Danny Sharp, the keynote speaker at the ceremony Sunday at the Dothan Civic Center, told the group of more than 100 graduates that it’s not enough just to provide for themselves and their families.

“We all have to work to provide for our families and pay our bills, but outside the work world are many opportunities and, I believe, responsibilities to serve – chambers of commerce, service organizations, civic clubs, boys and girls clubs, food banks, church outreach ministries and others,” Sharp said. “There are over 400 nonprofit agencies in our area alone with the single purpose to make someone’s life better, a little easier, safer.”

Sharp, whose volunteer work includes stints with the Dothan Exchange Club, Dothan Rotary Club, Dothan Area Food Bank and Catholic Social Services, said the need for volunteers and leadership is especially strong in the Wiregrass.

“Spend a day or two with me and I will show you need — need to read, need to eat, help in making better decisions, help in turning one’s life around,” he said. “Each of our communities needs leadership. Why not you?”

Sharp said only one in four adults in the region have a college degree, which speaks highly of the graduates’ work ethic and dedication.

“I know that you will do well, and my wish is that you will do well right here in this area, because you living, working and raising your family here makes us all better,” he said.

Sharp is a real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Commercial Alfred Saliba Realty.