Here are the best graduation speeches of the year 2009.
There are some remarkable graduation speeches, that left a lasting impact on the graduates that were present that day. Amongst the ideas and wisdom that was shared there were emphasis on courage, empathy, pursuing passions for a fulfilling life, and much more.
As these graduates stepped into the world beyond academia, they carried with them the lessons and encouragement from these great speeches, shaping their outlook on challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Maybe one of this speeches can inspire you too. Read them and let us know.
The list is a work in progress, so come back to check if there are new, interesting speeches.
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Carl Schramm
Carl Schramm, a renowned economist and entrepreneurship advocate, delivered an enlightening address at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2009. In his speech, Schramm highlighted the pivotal role of entrepreneurship in driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation. He told graduates to consider the entrepreneurial path and to embrace creativity and risk-taking as essential elements of success.
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Barack Obama
Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, delivered an impactful address at Arizona State University in 2009. During his speech, President Obama told graduates to embrace the spirit of service and civic engagement. He emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for creating positive change in the world and addressing the pressing issues of the day.
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Robert M. Gates
Robert M. Gates, affiliated with the University of Georgia in 2009, is a distinguished U.S. government official with an illustrious career. He served as the director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) under President George H.W. Bush from 1991 to 1993 and later as the Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011, during the administrations of Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His extensive experience in national security and defense matters, coupled with his commitment to public service, has made him a prominent figure in American government. His association with the University of Georgia highlights the university’s ties to…
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Paul Hawken
Paul Hawken, a prominent environmentalist and author, delivered a compelling address at the University of Portland in 2009. In his speech, Hawken passionately discussed the urgent need for sustainability and environmental stewardship. He told graduates to become leaders in addressing the pressing issues of climate change and ecological conservation. Hawken emphasized that each individual has the power to make a meaningful difference in the world through conscious choices and responsible actions.
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Martha Nussbaum
Martha Nussbaum, a distinguished philosopher and scholar, delivered an enlightening address at Connecticut College in 2009. Her speech focused on the importance of cultivating empathy, compassion, and a sense of justice in an increasingly interconnected world. Nussbaum challenged graduates to think critically about global issues and to work towards creating a more just and equitable society. Her words underscored the significance of ethical leadership and the role of education in fostering a more compassionate and empathetic world.
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Larry Page
Larry Page, co-founder of Google, delivered an insightful address at the University of Michigan in 2009. His speech emphasized the importance of innovation, entrepreneurship and limitless potential of technology. He told graduates to pursue their passions, take calculated risks, and embrace the ever-changing landscape of the digital age. His address underscored the transformative power of technology and the boundless opportunities it presents for shaping the future.