In a powerful call to action, the University of Michigan’s newest alumni were urged to embrace their roles as today’s leaders at the Winter Commencement held on December 14 at the Crisler Center. The event featured a keynote address by Fred Upton, a notable U-M alumnus and former U.S. representative, who spoke of the challenges and opportunities facing the class of 2025.
Upton’s Call for Leadership
Fred Upton, who graduated in 1975 with a degree in journalism, reflected on his own college days marked by the Vietnam War and Watergate scandal. He humorously recalled those turbulent times by mentioning his past participation in student sit-ins. Speaking before an audience of approximately 1,000 graduates and 5,000 family and friends, Upton conveyed optimism amidst complex political and social challenges. “The sun will come up, and we will get through these very troubled times, but only with your leadership, vision, and involvement,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of the graduates’ future roles.
Upton, who has served 18 terms in Congress, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws. He highlighted his bipartisan approach to politics, inspired by Frederick Douglass’s words: “I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong.” He encouraged the graduates to embrace coalition-building as a means to drive positive change.
Honorary Degrees and Inspirational Speeches
Other distinguished individuals receiving honorary degrees included civil rights activist Diane Judith Nash, biotechnologist Robert Langer, and musician Don Was. University President Domenico Grasso humorously remarked that December 14, 2025, would be remembered as “the first day you begin to forget everything you learned in college.” Quoting Mark Twain, he added, “What remains will be your true education.” He urged graduates to think creatively and critically, reminding them of their responsibility to utilize their education to uplift others.
Provost Laurie McCauley spoke about the unpredictable nature of the modern world, shaped by rapid technological advances. She encouraged graduates to build careers during this era of opportunity, emphasizing the enduring value of human connections and resilience over mere technical expertise.
Student Reflections and Future Outlooks
Student speakers Kaylee America Rodriguez and Andrea Valenzuela shared personal journeys marked by resilience and adaptability. Rodriguez, a cancer survivor and athlete, spoke about embracing life’s unexpected detours, emphasizing that “redirection isn’t failure — it’s a part of the journey.” Valenzuela, reflecting on her doctoral work amid a tech-driven world, highlighted the irreplaceable value of human empathy and creativity in shaping the future.
Faculty Senate Chair Derek Peterson inspired graduates by recalling historical acts of courage, such as the efforts of U-M students who defended free speech during the Civil War era. He encouraged the class of 2025 to uphold this legacy of activism and justice as they move forward.
