Remarks: University of Pittsburgh, Spring Graduation May 3, 2026; Acrisure Stadium: William Pierce
Thank you Chancellor Gabel for those kind remarks.
Before I begin, let me put on a hat I am much more comfortable in…..(take off mortar board and put on Pitt ball cap).
As the president of the Pitt Alumni Association, it has been an honor to speak at graduation. But more than an honor, it gives me great pride as I look out and see all that you have accomplished. You are budding entrepreneurs…. engineers…. scientists…. communicators…. technologists… policymakers…. social workers… and public health practitioners to name just a few. Some of you are going to medical or dental school, to get advanced degrees in nursing, public health and public policy among many professions.
I have come to one conclusion; the country is in good hands. So, on behalf of the PAA and our 360,000 alumni, who you now join, congratulations to you, your family and all those who supported you on this journey.
So… take some time to relax and revel in your accomplishments. You earned it. But don’t get too comfortable -- because the hardest, but most rewarding work, is about to begin.
For this journey, you are going to need all the skills you developed and displayed in school, except now, instead of the classroom, you will be focusing on your career and the country.
And on this journey, you can make America – and the world – what you want them to be. In the 250th anniversary year of our country, ask yourself, having come this far, what do we want America – and the world – to look like in the next 250?
To go old school on you, Mahatma Ghandi said “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” His message was clear – all change starts within each of us.
Do not wait for others to initiate change -- be responsible for yourself, be intentional, show integrity, be kind -- because our actions can and do contribute to change in the world. Such is your charge. Do not reflexively accept the status quo.
Begin with yourself. Adjust as needed; be a model for others in all things and places. Think about life beyond today.
And while the future may look daunting, the evidence for your success is clear.
Today there are hundreds of thousands of alumni who have achieved success via the education, opportunities and network Pitt provided.
This is your future. So, know that the PAA and your fellow alumni will be with you on your journey. Count on us to encourage, share experiences and provide wisdom and guidance. And while your Pitt journey is complete -- your story is not over.
So, embrace the opportunity to be an active member of the alumni community and build your network. Engage. Show up. Be accessible. Pay it forward. Push the edge. Show the world why “It’s Possible At Pitt.”
As I wrap up, I want to let Emily Blanchard know your parents are very proud of you. I met them on the T on our way to Acrisure today and we had a great conversation, and it was clear they are proud of your accomplishments.
Good luck. Thank you. Good Luck. Hail to Pitt.
At this time, I would like to ask the members of the Heinz Chapel Choir to please return to the stage. Would everyone please rise if you are able to join in the singing of the Alma Mater.