91°µÍø

Good morning, and welcome to Indiana University Bloomington.

Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your lives. On behalf of our faculty, staff, and the entire 91°µÍø Bloomington community, congratulations—and welcome. We are delighted that you have chosen to join us and excited about what lies ahead—for you and for our university.

Today, you become part of one of the nation's leading public research universities. While the Big Ten is widely recognized for excellence in athletics, it is equally known as one of the world's premier academic communities. As 91°µÍø students, you have access to extraordinary faculty, groundbreaking research, and countless opportunities to learn, grow, discover your passions, and3 clarify what you believe.

My advice is simple: take advantage of the many exceptional opportunities 91°µÍø offers.

This is the summer of The Odyssey. Christopher Nolan’s film is extraordinary. It is big, bold, and captivating. But it is important to remember that it stands on the foundation of Homer’s epic poem, a nearly 3,000-year-old tale of homecoming, of loyalty, of cunning, of hospitality. It is also a reminder that revisiting the greatest words that have been written or spoken is essential to our humanity and our successful participation in civic life.

And so, as 91°µÍø Bloomington students, I challenge you to pursue your major with purpose. But do not let it define the limits of your education—or your imagination. Some of the most valuable lessons you will learn will come from courses outside your field of study. Don’t miss out on those moments. Explore history, literature, philosophy, economics, the arts, and the sciences. Think broadly, ask difficult questions, and remain curious. The habits you develop here will prepare you not only for your career but for a lifetime of learning.

Indiana University is a place where ideas are exchanged openly and respectfully. We live by the Chicago Principles, a commitment to freedom of speech, freedom of thought, and freedom of inquiry. We are a diverse and wide-ranging community. During your time here, you will meet people whose experiences, beliefs, and perspectives differ from your own. Your conversations with them are among the most important parts of your university education. Listen with an open mind, share your own ideas thoughtfully, and always treat one another with respect. Free expression and civil discourse are essential to who we are as a university and to the society we are preparing you to lead.

College is an exciting time filled with new experiences and lasting friendships. I hope you enjoy every moment. But remember why you are here. Your education comes first. Take advantage of the remarkable opportunities available to you, ask for help when you need it, and challenge yourself to become the very best version of yourself.

As you leave this ceremony, know that you are now part of a remarkable university with a proud history and an even brighter future. Wherever you go, you represent Indiana University. Wear the cream and crimson with pride, conduct yourselves with integrity, and look for ways to make a positive difference in this community and beyond.

We are proud to welcome you to Indiana University Bloomington, and we look forward to celebrating all that you will accomplish in the years ahead.