This is my favorite time of year. It is full of hope and gratitude. Many, if not all of us, are hopeful for a future that promises new challenges and new opportunities—whether in work or school, moving home or far away, or maintaining friendships while making room for new friends and colleagues. At the same time, we are thankful for the family members, instructors, mentors, and friends who did so much to get us to this point in our lives.

Congratulations to our graduates. It has been a great joy to witness all that you have contributed to the University of Iowa. You’ve made our campus a vibrant and inclusive place to live, learn, and work; contributed to important research; and assured us older folks that, for all our fears, the future is bright. I know you are hardworking, intelligent, and thoughtful. Though we’re sad that you’re leaving, we are excited to see what you will accomplish. We know that you will make us proud by sharing who you are and what you have learned at UI with the rest of the world.

Commencement is bittersweet. Even in the age of social media, some of you are worried about losing touch with your closest friends. Some are worried about finding that perfect job. Others are worried about applying to graduate school, and maybe even some graduate students are worried about “what’s next?” Or, maybe you’re just wondering how you’re going to entertain your family while they’re here. There is plenty of worry going around. I know I sure worried when I was in your shoes. I even worried about whether my car would make it home from school. But don’t let the worrying dominate your thoughts. This is a time to celebrate what you’ve achieved. That achievement is what’s going to carry you through whatever you’re worried about and on to your continued success. You’re receiving your degree, which means you’ve proven to your professors and mentors that you can do what you set out to do. Now you have to believe in yourselves. I know it isn’t always easy, but you have incontrovertible proof. You now possess one of the world’s most valuable assets: a University of Iowa degree. And that’s worth celebrating!

Here’s what I’m celebrating: The University of Iowa is sending more than 4,800 talented graduates out across this state, nation, and around the globe. UI alumni are bright, industrious, and inventive. They solve problems. They think deeply about things. They build things. They help people. And in doing all that, they make a name for themselves, which burnishes the reputation of this university. That brings more talented people to the UI, allowing us to continue our work of education, research, invention, creative expression, and service. Someday someone will be looking up to you—maybe someone is right now—and it will be our honor to have contributed even a small part to what makes you a person others emulate.

But don’t worry about that just yet. For now, enjoy your time with friends and family. Take some serious photos and some goofy ones. Enjoy your complete freedom from finals. Savor the meal at your celebratory dinner downtown or at that barbecue at your friend’s house—whatever you have lined up. You’ve earned it. Thank you for all that you have done and all that you are about to do. I can’t wait to see what you will accomplish!