Front of the Line: A Graduation Story Worth Remembering

On a bright June morning in 2002, under a clear blue sky brimming with hope, my husband of four years, Rhett Hoffmeister, stood at the very front of the Bachelor’s degree line at Central Washington University’s 111th Commencement.

The year before, when I graduated, Rhett had been in the crowd—supportive, proud … and slightly frustrated. He’d watched the endless stream of names before mine, seated what felt like a mile from the stage, waiting far too long to hear my moment. That experience stuck with him. So when his turn came, he promised: he wouldn’t be lost in the crowd, nor would he be at the back.

Instead of sleeping in or arriving with the masses, Rhett tucked a book into the back of his jeans, where he always carried them, and left early. It was far earlier than most would even think to arrive, but he got there and then stood patiently in line for hours. Just so he could be first. It worked, too. He walked in right behind the ushers and was able to get the first seat nearest us right behind the doctorate and masters candidates.

He had it all planned, and it went flawlessly. I mean, look how close we were to him. He could sit with the graduates and sit with us. Nothing more than a flimsy green barrier between us. A barrier he stepped over to leave early when he was done waiting for everyone else to walk. Right, lots of patience at the beginning, so he could have no patience later. Our parents and younger siblings were glad we ditched early, but the ever rule following ME told him he should fully live the experience and wait it out.

He, and everyone else, overruled me, and we all left early. The entire family group stood up, packed up our lawn chairs, blankets, oversized tote bags with snacks, and walked out early from the front of the graduation. You get where I am going with that!?!? I embarrass easily and hated every second of ditching.

That’s just who he is. Quietly intentional. Thoughtfully committed. A lot stubborn and not at all patient. But look at that man. Isn’t he proud of his wonderful accomplishment?

Dressed in crimson robes and a matching cap, he held his diploma with pride; a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management.

Graduation day is often remembered for the milestone it represents, the final chapter of one season and the open door to the next. But it’s also remembered in the small moments: the rustle of gowns in the breeze, the nervous energy on the field, and the way a diploma feels in your hands after years of hard work, midnight study sessions.

For Rhett, that day was more than a ceremony. It was a full-circle moment. Business school may have handed him the technical tools, but he brought something much more powerful to the table: the kind of leadership that starts by showing up early, standing quietly in line, and always remembering the value of being present, for himself and others. These are traits he will use the rest of his life.

I still smile when I think about him standing there, at the very front. Not for the attention. Not for the photo. Just because it mattered to him.

And honestly? That makes it matter even more to me.