UIC Fall Commencement 2025

I woke up this morning and I had to remind myself that it's been 50 years. I know what it's like. I've sat in your seats. I've walked in your steps. It's been quite a journey. Commencement is by design a moment of celebration and optimism. And it should be. Nobody handed you this today. You earned it. One late night study session, one exam, one paper at a time. >> [music] >> I trust that you have also made friends here, laughed with them, and now share indelible memories. I also hope that you have developed a deep sense of gratitude to all those who have supported you along the way. >> You know, when you sit here on stage, there are these monitors where when the camera is panning on you, we [music] can see it. And I love the, you know, the victory, the the hearts, the other heart that only young people can [music] do. Everyone has the right to participate in and benefit from worldclass research [music] and everyone has the right to worldclass healthcare. All of you today have turned access [music] into excellence. Your success is the best expression of our mission. >> [music] >> I think we can all attest, and I think you've heard this already once or twice, to a not so little secret, that life goes by very, very quickly and before you know it, you'll be coming back in December of 19 Nope, excuse me, [laughter] showing my age here. in December of 2075 for your golden graduation. I hope that you will continue to work hard and stay connected to one another and to the university. Smile at everyone you see. Take a hundred photos, give dozens of hugs and handshakes, and maybe, just maybe, breathe one big sigh of relief because you did it. UIC class of 2025, let's hear it for you. >> Thank you. Congratulations. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. [music] Heat. [music] [cheering] [music] Heat.