Stanford University’s 130th Commencement weekend, June 12-13, 2021, occurred in two parts. Saturday’s Advanced Degree Commencement Ceremony featured a speech by physician and author Atul Gawande and Sunday’s Senior Class of 2021 Commencement Ceremony featured actor, writer and producer Issa Rae. Gawande spoke about the fantastical unpredictability of post-commencement life and advised the graduates to embrace whatever opportunities came their way. “In your formative years, you don’t know – you can’t know – what will ultimately matter to you; what will grab you by the shoulders and awaken you and stay with you,” said Gawande. “So you have to be open to trying stuff – to saying yes.” Rae reminisced about her own Stanford graduation and time on the Farm and described how friends, classmates and administrators had supported her creative journey. “Build and tap into your community,” she advised the graduates.
Reflecting on the pandemic and the response to racial injustice in the last year, University President Marc Tessier-Lavigne said how proud he was of the graduates and that he hoped this year helped clarify what was truly important to them. “You have gained the knowledge and the skills to pursue a life that conforms with your values,” said Tessier-Lavigne at Saturday’s event. “The strength and tenacity that have brought you through the last year will help you in that pursuit.”
Go to the web site to view the video.
Go to the web site to view the video.
Full-length videos of the 2021 Commencement ceremonies are available on the Stanford YouTube channel:
“Joy is to be sought and treasured. Go forth and lead a life steeped in gratitude.” Words to the Class of #Stanford2021 from @StanfordMed’s Odette Harris, who became one of the first black female neurosurgery professors in America when she was promoted in 2018.
“Growth is not always glamorous.” @GirmayZahilay, ’09, to the Class of #Stanford2021
“Go out and change the world, we’ll be cheering you on.” Words from Tara VanDerveer to the Class of #Stanford2021. VanDerveer claimed the record for all-time wins by a women’s basketball coach in December 2020, during her 35th season leading @StanfordWBB.
“Do your best to slow down.” Words from one of the fastest distance runners in America to Stanford's 2021 graduates. #Stanford2021 @sarahall3
“An essential element of a happy life is knowing your worth.” Words from Yvette Lee Bowser, ’87, to the Class of #Stanford2021. Bowser, showrunner for Dear White People and Run the World, is the first African American woman to have developed her own primetime series.
“I wasted so much time and energy feeling like I didn’t measure up. Invest instead in improving intangibles.” Words from @JujuChangABC to the Class of #Stanford2021. Chang, ’87, is the first Korean American to have played a prominent role on a U.S. morning news show.
