You come from virtually every state, from Puerto Rico, from the Virgin Islands, from Guam, from more than 70 nations. You are comprised of every race and religion this remarkable world has to offer. We celebrate all of them. This commencement is a celebration of your achievements. But, in a curious way, the language and terminology we use is all wrong and fails to capture what you have accomplished.
Most commencements focus on beginnings.
Beginning careers . . . Beginning accomplishments . . . The image often evoked is the completion of several years removed from society and responsibilities and focus student life and learning. You have been relentless in pursuit of your academic goals while juggling the complex demands of family. Your professional lives are flourishing because you enrich them immeasurably with your learning.