TROY - The head of Alabama’s National Guard urged Troy University graduates to develop an ethical code of conduct to guide their personal and professional lives.

Maj. Gen. Mark Bowen, Adjutant General for the State of Alabama, spoke Friday at fall commencement exercises at Sartain Hall on the Troy Campus. He was introduced by Dr. Jack Hawkins, Chancellor of Troy University.

“Always try to contribute something to society rather than expecting something from society,” Bowen said. Bowen also urged students to be role models and set a positive example.

“Looking over this group of graduates I see the future leaders of our state and nation—and even our armed forces,” he said. “You should realize the important and vital role that you will have in our society and the influence you will have on future generations.”

Bowen commended the graduates for choosing to improve themselves through higher education. “You chose the path of higher education and today you will reap the benefits of your labor,” he said. “I commend you for making a good and wise choice.”

Prior to his appointment as Adjutant General, Bowen had retired from the Alabama National Guard in 2000 after a 44-year career of service. At the time of his retirement, Bowen was commander of the 167th Logistical Support Command in Birmingham. He is a resident of Lineville.

Chancellor Hawkins presented diplomas to approximately 285 graduates from 18 U.S. states and 10 foreign nations Friday. He also recognized eight students from the People’s Republic of China who completed their studies at TROY in the dual-degree 1-2-1 program. Under this program students spend their freshman and senior years at a partner university in China and their sophomore and junior years at TROY.