2011 Graduation: GBHS Keynote Speaker Andrew Pruski

At-large Anne Arundel County Board of Education Member Andrew Pruski will deliver the keynote address at Glen Burnie High School's commencement ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

In his remarks, the Gambrills resident plans to tell graduating seniors that he believes that they can succeed.

"There is no doubt that the class of 2011 will face future challenges. If you pick up a newspaper today you may read headlines that state the global economy is struggling, unemployment rate [is] on the rise or [the] Board of Education asking for additional money to support schools. Regardless of what the media may report or the challenges that you may face, I have faith in you as the next generation," he wrote in a prepared speech sent to Glen Burnie Patch.

In his speech, Pruski will point to Glen Burnie students' ability to raise more than $1,500 for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. He will also reference the fact that many students will attend prestigious schools—several having received significant scholarships—and many more have jobs lined up or will study a trade.

"Students in the class of 2011 [at] Glen Burnie High School are humble, academically prepared, and resolute," he wrote in his speech.

Pruski wrote that he is inspired by the class of 2011 and students like those who will graduate from Glen Burnie are the reason he believes in public education. In his speech he will ask a favor of them.

"I ask that you do not forget what public education has provided to you," he wrote in his speech. "Please speak, vote and inspire others to support our public schools regardless of the challenge, because you are the living result of why we are here."