Good afternoon, Class of 2026! Thank you, President Mills.
As the chair of NYU’s board of trustees, and as a proud two-time alumnus, it is my privilege to welcome you to today’s celebration.
I’d like to extend a special welcome to the friends and family who have supported our students and cheered them on through their journeys at NYU. Thank you for your vital role in helping them reach this joyful and momentous day.
You have reached this milestone after dedicating yourself to the unique experience only NYU Shanghai can provide: immersion in a rigorous academic environment surrounded by the dynamic urban energy of one of China’s greatest cities. You have brought wisdom and perspective from China and across the globe.
As I prepared for today’s ceremony, I looked back on my own time as a student at NYU so many years ago. I grew up in the Bronx in New York City, and a college education was out of reach for my family until NYU gave me a scholarship. It changed my life.
After earning a bachelor’s degree from what is now the College of Arts and Science, I returned to the NYU School of Law. As a law student, I had the good fortune to study a discipline I loved, and which would lead me on a path of purpose and meaning.
At NYU I learned how to think critically, how to ask important questions, and how to be open to a greater understanding of people and the world. My education prepared me for a life that took me around the world.
And now, Class of 2026, it’s your turn. Your turn to follow your dreams. Your turn to make a difference. Your turn to show the world what you can do. Wherever you go, whatever you do, take what you have learned here with you. At NYU, we change lives. And you will see that it has changed yours.
As you enjoy today’s well-deserved celebration, remember that you have completed challenging courses of study at a great global research university. I speak for the entire NYU community when I say we are so proud of you.
Today you join the ranks of more than 700,000 alumni, many of whom are in China and this part of the world. Welcome to this extraordinary community. We cannot wait to see how far you’ll go.
Congratulations, class of 2026!
Please welcome David Pe, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs to present today’s student speakers.