It was amid a gentle downpour at The Ohio State University's spring commencement that Charles F. Bolden Jr.—retired Major General and former NASA administrator—took the stage to address the crowd huddled beneath a sea of umbrellas in Ohio Stadium. Bolden, who led NASA from 2009 to 2017, offered a message of unity and service to the fresh grads. "You are the ones who will build and strengthen bridges of understanding and cooperation here in America and around the world," Bolden stated, as reported by Ohio State News. Bolden emphasized the importance of being open to forming unexpected alliances, telling graduates to "be surprised and receptive to others not like you."
Ohio State President Walter "Ted" Carter Jr. shared insights on the often daunting task of measuring up to accomplished individuals like Bolden. He encouraged the students to take a closer look at those who serve the greater community, remarking, "They have all answered a call to serve the greater good," in a statement obtained by Ohio State News. He further highlighted that the graduates can choose how to answer that call, whether through public service, military service, or philanthropy. Carter reassured, "With the Ohio State degree you are earning today, I know you will answer that call and make the world a better place."
The commencement event also served to honor several individuals for their contributions to the university and broader community. Acclaimed physician, public health expert, and author Atul Gawande received an honorary Doctor of Science. William B. Farrar, along with Elizabeth B. Germain and Richard B. Germain, were recipients of Distinguished Service Awards, in recognition of their support of Ohio State.
In total, the university conferred 12,357 degrees and certificates during the ceremony, celebrating a diverse graduating class with representation from 91 countries, including Costa Rica, India, Kenya, and Sweden. According to Ohio State News, the degrees awarded encompassed 294 doctorates, 1,770 master’s, 975 professional degrees, and the remaining 9,318 were bachelor’s and associate degrees, along with certificates.
