Michael Bloomberg, a successful businessman, philanthropist, and former Mayor of New York City, delivered an insightful and impactful address at the University of North Carolina in 2012. Bloomberg’s speech commemorated the values of innovation, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility and the significance of leadership and public service in creating a better future.He encouraged graduates to embrace change and to use their education to make a positive impact on the world.
Ira Glass, the host and producer of radio program “This American Life,” delivered an insightful and provocating address at Goucher College in 2012. Glass’s speech celebrated the art of storytelling and the importance of embracing failure and persistence in creative pursuits, highlighting the transformative potential of storytelling and the value of tenacity in the pursuit of artistic excellence. He encouraged graduates to find their unique voices and to be unafraid of making mistakes to approach their creative endeavors with passion and resilience.
Hank Aaron, the legendary baseball player and Hall of Famer, delivered an inspiring address at Marquette University in 2012. Aaron’s speech emphasize the values of perseverance, determination, and breaking barriers in the face of adversity. He shared his own experiences as a trailblazer in the sport of baseball and encouraged graduates to chase their dreams relentlessly and overcome obstacles and strive for excellence in their chosen paths.His speech underscored the significance of sportsmanship and power of hard work and dedication in achieving greatness.
David McCullough Jr., a high school English teacher and the son of renowned historian David McCullough, delivered a memorable address at Wellesley High School’s commencement ceremony in 2012. His speech challenged graduates to think about their role in the world and to strive for greatness. He told them, “You are not special. You are not exceptional.” His message was a call to humility and a reminder that true success is not measured by external validation but by one’s own dedication and contributions to society and to find meaning and purpose in their lives by working hard and making a positive difference in the world. His speech remains a poignant reminder of the importance of humility and genuine achievement.
Andy Samberg, the acclaimed comedian, actor, and formercast member of “Saturday Night Live”, brought humor and insight to Harvard University in 2012. Samberg’s speech emphasize the power of comedy and creativity in connecting with others and fostering laughter. He encouraged graduates to find humor in life’s challenges and to approach their future endeavors with a sense of playfulness and optimism. Andy Samberg’s speech was a memorable and entertaining tribute to the joy of humor and the value of staying true to oneself.
Angela Davis, the influential civil rights activist, author, and scholar, delivered a powerful and thought-provoking address at Pitzer College in 2012. Davis’s speech celebrated the importance of social justice, activism, and the ongoing struggle for equality and human rights,encouraging graduates to challenge systems of oppression and inequality and to stand up for justice and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. She addresses the significance of activism and the ongoing fight for social justice in our world.
Lee Corso, a sports broadcaster and analyst known for his enthusiastic personality, delivered an energetic and spirited address at Florida State University in 2012. Corso’s speech celebrated the passion and camaraderie that sports bring to our lives, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and determination both on and off the field. Lee Corso’s address at Florida State University was a memorable and motivational tribute to the enduring spirit of sportsmanship and dedication to excellence.
Louis B. Susman, the distinguished diplomat and former United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, delivered an insightful and engaging address at Connecticut College in 2012. Susman’s speech celebrated the importance of diplomacy, global cooperation, and public service in today’s interconnected world. He encouraged graduates to be active and informed global citizens, highlighting the role of diplomacy in addressing critical global challenges. Louis B. Susman’s address underscored the significance of diplomacy and international cooperation in shaping a more peaceful and just world.
Jefferson Smith, a former Oregon State Representative and co-founder of the nonprofit organization “The Bus Project,” delivered an engaging and motivating address at the University of Oregon in 2012. Smith’s speech honored the power of civic engagement and grassroots activism in creating positive change in communities, encouraging graduates to be active and informed citizens, emphasizing the importance of participating in the democratic process and advocating for causes they believe in. His address underscored the significance of youth-led activism and the potential for young leaders to shape the future.
In 2012, Benno C. Schmidt, a distinguished lawyer, educator, and former president of Yale University, delivered a thought-provoking commencement address at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. Schmidt, known for his contributions to higher education and his leadership in academic institutions, shared his insights on the importance of access to quality education and the role of universities in shaping the future.