Commencement 2025 – The President’s Charge
The Commencement ceremony celebrates the achievements of each of our students, but it means much more.
Commencement celebrates the accomplishments of a great academic community, a community where you have studied and worked together, in classrooms, laboratories, and studios…
Where you have listened to one another, challenged your beliefs, and allowed yourself to grow…
And where you have made friends and pursued new interests.
Commencement celebrates not only your accomplishments, but also the efforts of our outstanding faculty and staff whose dedication has helped lead you to this tremendous moment.
It also celebrates the love and commitment of those who have supported you – your family, your friends, and all the mentors you have had along the way.
I’d like us to acknowledge all of these remarkable people, many of whom are with us here at Nickerson Field. I invite our newest graduates to stand once more, turn, and join me in recognizing your family and loved ones.
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We are living in uncertain times. Political shifts and technological advances create new challenges and opportunities. While only the present moment is certain, the pace of change is indeed fast. You are graduating in this turbulent moment, leaving the bubble of Boston University—your friends, acquaintances and the faculty and staff who care so much about you.
I understand if you feel concerned or even a little fearful. But sit quietly and take a deep breath. Trust in all that you have learned and trust that your loved ones and this institution have provided you with knowledge, experience, and values that will carry you through.
In the words of the great former Dean of Marsh Chapel, Howard Thurman:
“A [person] wants to know that [their] life’s purpose and plans are floored by a structure that is more than they are, that is comprehensive, significant, and good. When there is the assurance that such a structure has been found, then the sense of being adrift, of living a meaningless life, disappears.”
For Thurman, that structure is his spirituality, which may be the structure for some of you. I suggest that this university, with its commitment to discovery, knowledge, excellence, and service to society also imbues you with values that you can turn to when you feel adrift. In these uncertain times, I look to institutional ancestors—like Howard Thurman and Dr. King and their commitment to seeing the humanity and worth of all people. And, I look to our faculty, staff, and students and I no longer feel adrift—I find purpose.
I encourage you to face the future with courage and purpose. Because you have tremendous support. Look around you, there are people who are here for you. You are graduating into one of the largest global alumni networks there is.
At matriculation, you became part of this institution. Upon graduation, your relationship grows and develops and does not end. I encourage you to return again and again.
While this institution is always here for you, it is now my privilege to send you forth, out into the world.
There is no doubt that on each of our shoulders rests an enormous amount of responsibility.
Today’s challenges and opportunities are many, they are complex, and they will require solutions from the most curious, compassionate, and caring people.
I see all these things in you, the Boston University Class of 2025. You are the future of this University, this country, and this world.
And, even as the challenges in front of us seem daunting, I am optimistic, because you will be among the next generation of leaders.
And many of you are leading already. Among today’s graduates are members of the United States military; we thank you for your service. Also, among us are those who are commissioning into the Armed Services of the United States. You have chosen to dedicate yourselves to the protection of this country. This University is proud of you and gives you its sincerest gratitude. Wherever your tours of duty may take you, Godspeed.
And to all the Class of 2025 — as you leave Nickerson Field, you join a long line of Boston University graduates stretching over time to include some 455,000 living alumni of this great institution.
Stay connected with us. Once a Terrier always a Terrier. Seek out fellow Boston University alumni. Come back to campus and celebrate fond memories of this wonderful place. And make new ones when you return.
Know that, as you move forward, your stumbles as well as your accomplishments will become part of the fabric of our legacy as a community marked by its eminence. Boston University is strong, and we will remain strong, because of our people, all of you included, and our values.
And remember, too, that your Boston University education has prepared you to do great things.
So, go out into the world, confident that you have the tools to pursue excellence, wherever you go, and whatever you do.
Find what speaks to you. And when it becomes clear what compels you, use your gifts to shine a light on others, too.
Because, collectively, we can do so much more good for others and this world, than if we go it alone.
Again, my most sincere congratulations to you and your loved ones. Enjoy all that you have accomplished.
This is a joyous day!
As delivered on May 18, 2025, at Nickerson Field.