Description of the video:

Graduates,

I would like to start by saying how very proud I am of each and every one of you; the members of the Indiana University Southeast’s Class of 2020.

I can say without a doubt, that your class has overcome more disruption than any other class to date. The past couple months have truly been a challenge, but a challenge for which you have risen. That bodes well for you and our community at large because your class, above any previous class, is now prepared for anything that comes your direction. I am honored to have you represent this institution in the community, at your future employer’s place of business or at other institutions of higher education.

I know the postponement of our commencement ceremony has been very disappointing to you. It is a disappointment to me, as commencement is my favorite day of the year. So, let’s go back to a happier time. A time four years ago in the fall, when you first arrived at IU Southeast. Yes, yes, yes, I realize that for some of you, that arrival was likely longer than four years ago, and for a small number of you over-achievers, less than four years, but let us just settle on that four-year number for simplicity.

Four years ago, you all arrived early one morning, assembled in the Activities Building for a ceremony not unlike commencement. It was Induction Day, my second favorite day of the year. Most of you were anxious and nervous about what was to lie ahead, but you were there to charge ahead and explore your new life as a college student, preparing for your future life at Indiana University Southeast.

I may have had you do something silly, like “the wave”, and told you to dump your current girlfriend or boyfriend. Some of you rightly did that. Next you assembled with your classmates and progressed up the hill to the rousing welcome of our excellent faculty and staff. Little did you know how vitally important these people, the faculty, and staff of IU Southeast, would become in your ultimate success and arrival here today as a graduate. If you get a chance, send an email or two to the people on campus who made a difference, I know they would love to hear from you.

Over the past four years we have had a lot of fun together , and you have worked very hard to achieve your dreams. The dreams of being a college graduate. For nearly one-third of you, this dream is also the dream of your parents and family, as you are the first in your family to obtain a college diploma. A special congratulations to you for this well-earned achievement.

So here we are ; commencement day. Your day of achievement, your day to be proud. I am proud of you all.

Grenadiers by our very definition we are fighters, and this class has embodied the spirit of perseverance, flexibility, and patience. You are this region’s next leaders, next innovators, and next creative minds. You are our dreamers. You are our doers. You are our future.

I hope that you are honored and proud to receive your IU degree. I hope you have enjoyed your time at this exceptional institution of higher learning, and I hope you share your experiences with others who could benefit from it.

Thank you and congratulations, IU graduates.