The path leading to this evening has been long, eventful, and productive. Tonight is a time for reflection on where you have come from and where you are headed. On what you have learned and how you intend to use that knowledge and experience to fulfill your aspirations and to make the world a better place. A time to remember those who helped you along the way.
Commencement is a family affair.
Commencement is also an academic ritual. You arrive on the Main Mall as students and leave as graduates. You are graduates of a university that is blessed with a diverse international community that reflects the Texas of the 21st century. Not only do we have students from all 254 counties in Texas, but the student body also includes people from all 50 states and some 115 foreign countries. This academic year has been special for many reasons.