On Sunday, Hillsdale College President Dr. Larry Arnn delivered a heartfelt tribute to Charlie Kirk during a memorial service in Glendale, Arizona. Charlie Kirk, a strong supporter of Hillsdale, engaged deeply with their online courses, which significantly influenced his leadership journey. Dr. Arnn was instrumental in guiding Kirk’s educational path, encouraging him to delve into the Bible and the foundational history of America. This intellectual exploration shaped Kirk into a leader influential among young people.
Dr. Arnn shared an intimate moment from their friendship, recounting a conversation where he challenged Kirk with tough questions. “I asked him some questions he couldn’t answer. And he was already becoming famous, and I noticed his reaction. He said, ‘What should I do?’” Dr. Arnn recalled. His advice was straightforward but profound: “If you want to grow, you have to suffer. Start with the Bible, read the classics, study the founding of America.” This foundation not only drove Kirk to learn but also motivated him to become a formidable leader.
As a testament to his dedication, Kirk completed multiple online courses through Hillsdale. “He got a hold of my cell phone number, and he texted me a copy of a certificate of completion of a Hillsdale College online course. He would go on to do that 31 times,” Dr. Arnn noted. It was a remarkable commitment that underscored Kirk’s desire for self-improvement and his active pursuit of knowledge.
Dr. Arnn spoke with admiration when he mentioned the young leaders he had encountered. “I keep a list in my head of the six or eight young people, and I’m very privileged I get to know many inspiring young people who are the best I ever saw. Charlie is the only one who was never a full-time student at Hillsdale College who was on that list,” he explained. This statement speaks volumes about Kirk’s impact and the unique bond he shared with Dr. Arnn.
The memorial took on a poignant tone as Dr. Arnn reflected on life and legacy. “The assassin must give up his humanity to destroy something that has being. Charlie lives on. The assassin will die,” he proclaimed. This sentiment resonates deeply, emphasizing the enduring nature of Kirk’s influence even after his passing.
In a significant announcement, Dr. Arnn revealed that Hillsdale College would honor both Charlie and Erika Kirk with honorary degrees. “We are going to give Charlie and Erika the greatest respect a college can give, an honorary degree,” he stated. He elaborated, “Charlie, you see, has suffered enough. He’s gone to the Lord. He deserves his reward. Thank you.” This recognition shines a light on Kirk’s contributions and the respect he garnered throughout his life.
The ceremony was marked not just by reflection but also by reverence. Charlie Kirk’s legacy remains a testament to the values he championed and the lives he touched. Dr. Arnn’s tribute captured the essence of that legacy, celebrating a life of learning, leadership, and enduring impact.
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