I was recently honored to deliver the commencement speech at Franklin College's 2026 Graduation ceremony. Below is an excerpt from that speech. 

Franklin College is a special place: rooted in Hoosier values, committed to teaching
transferable skills, and dedicated to producing graduates who are not only employable, but who are also thoughtful, adaptable human beings. In a culture increasingly obsessed with speed and specialization, these qualities set you
apart. It is my honor to stand with you today.

Now onto that generous introduction! You have all just passed what I call myth-making 101. My gut is that my invitation to speak here today has more to do with my age. In a culture that lionizes youth and demonizes aging, being asked to deliver a commencement address is a rare opportunity to accentuate the lessons that come with age.

Gained wisdom is one benefit, but there are other positives to being in your 7th decade
or beyond: For starters, there is a reason it's called “kidnapping”. Adult napping means something entirely different; if you happen to be in a hostage situation, you're usually one of the first to be released, and most importantly to me, no one-and I mean no one-expects you to run anywhere.

I cannot remember my own commencement speaker; nor do I remember their message, but I do remember the sense of accomplishment I felt-something I certainly
hope each and every graduate here today feels. At my own college commencement, I remember feeling on top of the world, diploma in hand, believing that my four years in
college would never be topped and that I was prepared for “adulting”. There is a reason they call this “commencement”, indicating an act of beginning. This moment is filled with promise and hope. I will be no bearer of bad news today, I will not tell you that
adulting is hard. I will not add to the constant noise about how the world today is on fire, a dumpster fire so to speak. Speaking of dumpster fires, I'm probably the only one here who has actually experienced a real dumpster fire...

Subscribe and read the full speech on Substack