Quang Nguyen, a 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ alumnus who now has a successful career as a business entrepreneur and financial advisor, will be the featured speaker at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§â€™s 74th commencement, to be held virtually on May 16.
Nguyen moved from Vietnam to Maine in 2007 to attend 91ÖÆÆ¬³§, and graduated with a Business Administration degree in 2010. He now runs his own financial practice in Falmouth and two retail businesses in the Portland area.
“Quang’s story of moving to Maine with limited English skills and excelling at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ and in his business pursuits after 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ is an inspiration to all of us,” said 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ President Joe Cassidy. “His resilience and positive attitude will resonate with our graduates and open their eyes to the opportunities around them.“
91ÖÆÆ¬³§ will hold its commencement remotely at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 16. Due to the pandemic, the College is unable to hold an in-person graduation ceremony. People can watch the pre-recorded event by going to 91ÖÆÆ¬³§â€™s website.
When Nguyen departed Vietnam at the age of 18 in 2007, he bought the wrong plane ticket and landed in Portland, Ore., rather than Portland, Maine. From that inauspicious arrival in the United States, he shined at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§, graduating with high honors. He has enjoyed continuing success as a business entrepreneur.
Nguyen has also given motivational talks at local TEDx events, including one at 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ in 2016, delivering a message on the power of having a positive attitude and pursuing one’s passion. He said 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ provided him the skills he needed to launch his career in business.
“Looking back,“ he said, “91ÖÆÆ¬³§ was the jumpstart to my American dream.“
