NBC10 Boston Anchor Inspires Graduates at Framingham State University

Worcester, Massachusetts — Latoyia Edwards, an Emmy Award-winning morning anchor at NBC10 Boston, delivered an inspiring keynote address to graduates at Framingham State University on Saturday. She encouraged the Class of 2025 to chase their dreams and embrace life’s challenges as opportunities for growth.

During her speech at the DCU Center, Edwards shared her journey into journalism, revealing the obstacles she faced, including discouraging comments about her background. “I would grow up not having a good job, living on public assistance, all due to negative forecasts about my future,” she said, reflecting on her early life as the child of teenage parents.

Edwards’ mother, despite societal challenges, pursued her education and became a teacher, while her father juggled multiple jobs to support the family. “Maybe that’s why I had some big goals, even though I was growing up in the hood,” Edwards noted.

In an engaging moment, Edwards conducted a “vibe check” on the audience before presenting her recipe for success, urging graduates to voice their aspirations. “Dream big, speak your dreams out loud. Write them down,” she advised.

Recounting her childhood experiences, Edwards emphasized resilience against negativity, including a painful encounter with a school bully who doubted her potential due to her name. “Kids can be cruel, but adults can be even crueler,” she stated, recalling how a college professor urged her to use a different name for better acceptance on television.

Despite the criticism, Edwards forged her own path. She encouraged graduates to approach their careers with humility and a willingness to learn. “Walk into that job hungry to learn, respect everyone from the janitor to the president,” she advised, stressing that passion is key to success.

Ending her address on an emotional note, she recalled the support of her family, especially honoring her late mother, who she described as her loudest cheerleader. “When you go out there and take on the world, remember to call your mom,” Edwards urged graduates.

With laughter and tears, she encouraged the graduates to shake off negativity and stay committed to their dreams. “Your story is not written yet; you determine your own story,” she declared as she concluded her speech with a powerful message of hope and empowerment.