Reverend Dr. Keith A. Troy, Morehouse class of 1976, delivered a rousing sermonette during Crown Forum entitled “Significance vs. Success.” This Crown Forum was in honor of Morehouse College’s most renowned alumnus, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. class of 1948. Troy, a pastor in Columbus, OH presented a powerful call to action for current Men of Morehouse.
On the rainy morning of January 22, students of the college gathered in Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel. Their murmurs fluttering about the space as rain pattered softly against the windows.
Leading a life of intention
Troy encouraged students not to seek definition in the approval of others. Instead, he suggested that they focus on their own presence and let their character guide them. Beyond that, his speech centered around the difference between success and significance. Success is a short-term achievement based on what others think. Meanwhile, significance is something longer-lasting, built on who you are rather than people’s opinions.
“I beg you, do not become addicted to the applause, because applause will come and go,” Troy said. “Many of the folk who will be cheering you on will not be cheering because they’re with you, they’re just happy to be around you.”
To further drive his point home, Troy said, “Success is building your resume. Significance is building a legacy.”
Troy stressed that true success comes from focusing on purpose, not just personal achievement. It is especially relevant in an environment where visibility is a huge factor in establishing one’s identity.
Anecdotes of a Morehouse Man
Troy shared a story of his major shift during his junior year at Morehouse. A visit to Antioch Baptist Church led him to accept his calling into ministry. Some students leaned forward or exchanged quiet glances while listening to Troy’s challenges he faced to pursue his career. His story illustrates that significance isn’t a process of instant gratification. It requires difficult decision-making and courage, rather than pursuing paths that only appear successful on the surface.
He then shared another anecdote, discussing the importance of investing in others, urging students to “be careful who you dismiss.”
Troy explained how he took time to tutor the daughter of Alice Booker, the head cook in Chivers Hall, offering her support and guidance as a student.
“She [Alice Booker] would cook for me a meal out of the executive kitchen, not just for me, but for my wife so I could take it home,” Troy said. “She was a cook, and yet, simply because I invested in her daughter, she fed me when I didn’t have money and I didn’t have food. Be careful not to ignore the ‘Alice Bookers’ in your life.”
The story captures what it means to be a Morehouse man. It takes a village.
Honoring a legacy
The forum concluded with the unveiling of Troy’s portrait, a moment that visually reinforced the very message he delivered. The portrait was representative of Keith Troy’s legacy rooted in not only professional accomplishment but in service, leadership, and faith. This unveiling showed that significance endures beyond the moment, impressing itself into the history of Morehouse.
Troy prompted students to consider not only their personal achievements but also how their actions affect those around them. He emphasized that a meaningful legacy is built through service, mentorship, and intentional choices. Through these lessons, Troy reminded the Men of Morehouse that true success is measured not by accolades but by the impact they leave on others.
