To every student crossing a stage, flipping a tassel, or receiving a diploma in the mail — congratulations.

Whether you’re graduating from high school or walking across that college or university stage, I want you to know: I see you. I see the late nights, the early mornings, the quiet moments of doubt you pushed through. I see the moments where quitting felt easier, but you chose to keep going. I see the strength it took to balance academics, work, family, and life — and you did it.

You earned this.

Graduation is more than a ceremony. It’s a reflection of everything you’ve overcome — the sacrifices, the effort, the discipline, and the resilience. And for so many of us, it’s not just a personal victory. It’s a family victory. A community victory. A generational milestone.

To those who are the first in their family to graduate — you are changing the narrative.

To those who faced obstacles most couldn’t imagine — and still crossed the finish line — your story is one of power and perseverance.

To those who didn’t take the traditional route, who returned to school after time away, or who doubted if they’d make it — you did. And you should be proud.

I believe in education not just as a system, but as a dream — a dream of opening doors, of discovering our purpose, of building futures we once only imagined. You are living proof of that dream in motion. And this is only the beginning.

So walk boldly. Speak confidently. Stand tall in your success — you earned every bit of it. And when you doubt yourself again (because it will happen), remember this moment. Remember the power of what you just accomplished.

I believe in you. I believe in your brilliance. And I believe in the dream — not just of graduating, but of rising, thriving, and leading with purpose.

Congratulations, Class of 2025. You are everything this world needs — and more.