University of Michigan graduates were urged to become leaders in a challenging world by Winter Commencement speaker Fred Upton. The former U.S. representative and U-M alumnus, speaking at Crisler Center on Dec. 14, emphasized the importance of leadership and responsibility in today’s complex era. Upton, a journalism graduate of 1975, reminisced about his university days amidst Vietnam and Watergate, humorously recalling student protests. He encouraged the class of 2025 to embrace leadership roles.
Approximately 1,000 graduates joined nearly 5,000 family members and friends at the Crisler Center. The Registrar’s Office reported 4,401 students were eligible for the ceremony, which included faculty and university leaders. Upton, hailing from a family of Wolverines, was a sports writer for The Michigan Daily. His career spanned roles as a congressional aide and White House analyst before serving 18 terms in the U.S. House. He received an honorary Doctor of Laws during the event.
Others receiving honorary degrees included Diane Judith Nash, civil rights activist; Robert Langer, biotechnologist; and Don Was, musician and producer. Upton emphasized bipartisan problem-solving, citing Frederick Douglass: “I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong,” encouraging graduates to build coalitions. He declared graduates as “leaders for today,” challenging them to stand up and take action.
President Domenico Grasso humorously stated that Dec. 14, 2025, would mark the day graduates begin to forget what they learned in college, citing Mark Twain: “what remains will be your true education.” He highlighted the significance of a Michigan degree and urged students to think creatively and critically. Grasso quoted Horace Mann, urging graduates to achieve victories for humanity, and emphasized the importance of a growth mindset and continuous learning.
Provost Laurie McCauley addressed the graduates about the era of technological change, noting the unpredictable future and the importance of building human connections. She described careers as being built during times of great possibility, where creativity and resilience are vital. Graduating students, Kaylee America Rodriguez and Andrea Valenzuela, spoke of overcoming personal challenges and the role of compassion in a technologically advanced world.
Rodriguez, a cancer survivor, shared her journey, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and the value of sacrifices. Valenzuela discussed the rise of artificial intelligence, advocating for its use as a creative tool while emphasizing the human advantage of empathy and compassion. Faculty Senate Chair Derek Peterson reminded graduates of the fragility of freedoms, sharing historical examples of student activism.
He recounted how U-M students in 1861 defended free speech and justice, linking this legacy to the graduates of 2025. Peterson encouraged them to continue this tradition of activism and commitment to justice, concluding with “Congratulations and Go Blue!”
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