On behalf of the Class of 2025, I would like to extend our thanks to all of the faculty, staff, and administration who have put together this ceremony. Not only have you gathered us all to celebrate, but your unwavering dedication and commitment to the success of our student body has not gone unnoticed. And to the Class of 2025 – we did it. We gather here today to celebrate a tremendous accomplishment. Every single one of our journeys has been comprised of many risks, hardships, tribulations, and in turn triumphs, successes, and achievements. No matter what happened on your path to this moment, we are all bound by our unique experiences that unite us in this celebration. Our different backgrounds shape who we are and what we will become. Your journey here at Molloy is proof of that continued growth – growing not only the type of student you are, but the person you strive to be.
Molloy has provided all of us with memories for a lifetime. The relationships we built here, whether with students or faculty, have birthed friendships and connections that will help guide your future. As you move on from Molloy in both the near and distant future, always remember what your time here created. While you may forget a formula you memorized for a test, or rehearsed lines from a public speaking presentation, you will never forget the people and experiences that helped shape your time here at Molloy.
We are all aligned in the fact that we can now call ourselves graduates of Molloy University. Whether you are a first-generation college graduate, or receiving your graduate degree, the privilege to be celebrating here today is a moment we should all cherish. Education and knowledge are something that can never be taken away from us. At the end of the day, degrees may be symbolized on just a piece of paper but encompassed within that is the dedication and work you put in to earn this diploma. All of the late nights studying, office hours attendance, and time spent practicing your presentations – fueled by your desire for success - all led you to this momentous occasion. The work you have done here is finished, so take a deep breath and envision what is next for you. It is now your time to celebrate your achievement and take the knowledge you possessed into the real world.
Applying what you have learned in the classroom to wherever your next chapter may lie is certainly not an easy feat. But just know the wealth of knowledge you have gained at Molloy has set you up to tackle anything this world may throw at you. No matter where you end up in the coming weeks, months, or years, always remember to trust in yourself and your ability. You will always have what it takes to challenge norms, conquer hardships, and prove successful in doing so. We have all earned this honor for a reason, and none of us would be here if we did not have the strength and discipline to conquer whatever may lie ahead.
The Class of 2025 leaves Molloy University behind at a pivotal time in our lives. We are leaving Molloy in a better place than we found it, and we too are better for it. While this chapter of your book may be closed, it is now time to begin your next chapter. Always remember that your story is your story – and only you have the power to fight for what you believe in and control your destiny. We have been gifted with the power of knowledge and education. That power is something that burns within us, giving us the ability to accomplish what we set our mind to. It may not be that life allows you to accomplish everything you set out to do – but embrace the fact that there are great feats and opportunities out there for each and every one of us. Harness those opportunities and conquer them. Never shy away from what makes you and your abilities unique – as that is what will continue to breathe success into whatever you strive to do.
To all the students in the Class of 2025 – congratulations and be proud of what you have accomplished. The best is yet to come for everybody in this room, so believe it. Thank you.