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Can AI create an “Authentic” Commencement Address? 

Published in RINewsToday on May 15, 2023

It’s May and Rhode Island’s college seniors are graduating from colleagues and universities, ready to go out and make their mark on the world. According to the Education Data Initiative, this year there is an estimated 19,782 graduating seniors who will sit through commencement ceremonies with their families and friends, all listening to commencement speakers and watching diplomas being received. These graduation ceremonies are an academic milestone in the graduates’ lives.

The usual commencement address, traditionally about 10 minutes in length (up to 2,500 words), offers sound advice and inspiration to help the graduates to successfully navigate both their personal lives and professional careers throughout the years ahead. These speeches will vary widely, and can either be serious or lighthearted, but they should all be authentic, motivational, and informative.

The internet quickly makes the “sage advice” given by these commencement speakers available to millions across the globe. Whether you are a graduate or not, reading the speeches can be very helpful to anyone open to wisdom being imparted.

Many of the graduating seniors might not remember what they heard at the ceremony, but they just might remember the inspirational feelings felt during the commencement program.

As I have stated in previous commencement speech articles that I have penned, you don’t have to always be a politician, judge, television or radio personality, actor, or Fortune 500 CEO to give sound advice and tips to graduating seniors. As a matter of fact, it has been increasing popular to have graduates, themselves, deliver those commencement addresses, as well as “regular folk” who have overcome obstacles throughout their lives. Often, these addresses can be the most valuable with everyday knowledge. 

Real Folks Give Advice

In June 2014, this writer penned an article giving the Class of 2014 tips how they could ease into their professional niche in a state with the distinction of having the worst employment rate in the nation that continued to be one of the last states to see an economic revival – Rhode Island.

This article noted that there were many potential commencement speakers in local communities throughout the Ocean State who fly below the radar screen and could give college graduates sound strategies for success gleaned from their life experiences.  

Here are few tips given:

Michael Cassidy, Pawtucket, Retired. “As you go into the ‘real’ world from the sheltered ‘world of college’ don’t be too quick to judge the new people you meet in the workplace.  People come in all types, sizes, shapes, temperaments, personalities, ages, and backgrounds; and they all have their own experiences from which you can learn. If you are smart enough to listen to what others have to offer, you can learn from them not only about what to do, but about what not to do. And most times learning what not to do is the most valuable lesson you can have.”

Susan Sweet, Rumford, former state administrator, non-profit lobbyist and advocate, stated: “In the short space that we are in the world, we must create meaning in our lives by contributing to the happiness and well-being of other people and other sentient beings. To do good and useful work, caring and acting for the betterment of others is the true goal of life.”

Larry Sullivan, Net Compliance Solution’s technical & consulting services. “Recognize opportunity. If you can’t identify opportunities, then they are very likely to sneak past you unnoticed. Most people’s search criteria are so narrow in focus that it can essentially blind them to opportunities available right in front of their face. It’s the old “can’t see the forest for the trees” scenario.  Also, see yourself as a valuable asset. Your self-image will make a huge difference in the type of opportunities you attract to yourself. If you see yourself as a valuable asset, and you present yourself as such, others will see you that way as well.”

Joan Retsinas, Providence, a writer.  “Savor, savor, savor. Savor the sunshine, and the rain. Savor your friends, your family, your colleagues. Nurture the people close to you. Be a friend. Fall in love. If you fall out of love, fall in again. Read “Winnie the Pooh” to a child. Eat ice cream. Ride a bike. Swim in the ocean. Laugh. As for fame, fortune, and success, don’t fret. They don’t really matter.”

This year, I haven’t been asked to give a commencement speech, but with all the talk about AI and how it can write essays and homework assignments as well as most important thing, I wondered what it would generate if I gave it a few prompts.  

Using AI to Generate Speeches

With emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) I technology, future commencement speakers may be tempted crafting an inspirational and memorable speech.  ChatGPT (which can even mimic human speech in addition to creating high-quality content in seconds), is the latest way to quickly write a speech that stands out and leaves a lasting impact.

By using ChatGPT to write your speech, you can save time and create a speech that is tailored to your audience and purpose. But you must provide ChatGPT with all the necessary details and take the time to review and refine and tweak the draft speech to ensure it meets your needs.

Massachusett Congressman Jake Auchinclosstook a creative approach to his most recent speech on the House floor to make a point about artificial intelligence.  He was speaking on a bill to create a center for AI research, and used the artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT to write his speech.

According to a Jan. 20 article penned by Popular Science’s staff writer Andrew Paul, attendees of the World Economic Forum’s Davos summit openly admitted that they use AL for speeches and emails.  Speaking with CNN, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated in a speech that he is already relying on ChatGPT as a “writing assistant and thought partner,” reported Paul in his article, noting that among Nadella’s daily tasks, the AI chat program helps him craft emails, alongside speeches “in a friendly, upbeat, authoritative tone with mixed cadence.”

Last February, Isaac Herzog, the president of Israel, became the first world leader to publicly use ChatGPT, after delivering a speech at the Cybertech conference in Tel Aviv, partly composed by the AI ,the Jerusalem Post reported, AL wrote the introduction of the speech and generated a “inspirational quote” for its conclusion.  

You can expect more people to follow Auchincloss, Herzog, and Nadella’s lead in using ChatGPT, the latest AI technology to write their speeches.  

Here’s my attempt: To the graduating class of 2023…

After typing in “2023 Commencement Speech” along with key issues of interest to me such as  political “global unrest,” the “economy” and “political divide at the national and state levels,”  ChatGPT, was able to generate the following address that could be given to this year’s graduating seniors, in just 10 seconds, and with a perspective that reflects the way I was thinking.

“To the graduating 2023 seniors, I provide you with a commencement speech to thrive in the coming years.  

I am honored to be standing before you today as you embark on the next chapter of your lives. You are graduating during a time of great uncertainty and unprecedented challenges. The global pandemic has disrupted every aspect of our lives, the economy is struggling, and political divisions seem to be widening every day. But despite these challenges, I am confident that you are well-equipped to navigate these uncertain times and succeed in whatever path you choose to pursue.

First and foremost, I want to acknowledge that the current events have taken a toll on all of us, and I want to offer some advice on how to cope with them. The pandemic has changed the way we live, work, and interact with one another. It has forced us to adapt to new ways of doing things and challenged us to find creative solutions to problems. It has also reminded us of the importance of community and the power of human connection.

As you go out into the world, remember that you are not alone in facing these challenges. Seek out and build relationships with people who share your values and can support you during difficult times. Take care of your physical and mental health, and be proactive about seeking help if you need it. And remember to be patient and compassionate with yourself and others as we all navigate these uncertain times together.

The poor economy is another significant challenge that you will likely encounter as you enter the workforce. The job market may be tough, and it may take longer than you anticipated to find your dream job. But remember that setbacks are temporary and that your hard work and dedication will eventually pay off. Be open to new opportunities and willing to learn new skills that can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

One of the most important things you can do to cope with the poor economy is to be financially responsible. Live within your means, save money whenever possible, and avoid taking on unnecessary debt. This will give you more flexibility and freedom as you navigate your career and personal life.

Finally, I want to address the political divide that seems to be widening in our country. It can be disheartening to see so much division and negativity in the news and on social media. But I encourage you to stay informed, engage in civil discourse, and seek out diverse perspectives.

Remember that we are all human beings with different backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs. 

We may not always agree with one another, but we can still treat each other with respect and kindness. Be willing to listen to other points of view, and don’t be afraid to change your mind if new information or perspectives come to light.

In conclusion, I want to remind you that you have the power to shape your future and make a positive impact on the world. The challenges that we face today may seem overwhelming, but I am confident that you have the skills, knowledge, and resilience to overcome them.

As you go out into the world, remember to be patient, kind, and compassionate. Take care of yourself and those around you, and always strive to be your best self. Congratulations, graduates, and good luck on your journey!”

With the growing interest and use of ChatGPT, will more commencement speakers take advantage of this new AI technology?  Will the graduating seniors see the difference from an originally written, “authentic” speech providing tips gleaned from life-long experiences (like speeches given by college graduates or regular folks) or an AL generated address?  Time will tell. 

The above commencement speech was obtained from https://chat.openai.com/.

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Regular Folks Give Advice to Graduates

Published in Pawtucket Times, May 23, 2014

This month, commencement speakers at Rhode Island’s Colleges and Universities will give the Class of 2014 their tips on how they can successfully find their professional niche, in a state with the distinction of having the worst employment rate in the nation and continues to be one of the last states to see an economic revival.  Rhode Islanders are also known for their inferiority complex and general attitude about the quality of life in the state.

Robed graduating seniors will sit listening closely to commencement speeches, given by very well-known lawmakers, judges, television personalities and Business CEOs, detailing their observations and advice, and how if closely followed, just might give the graduates a more rewarding personal and professional life.

 Typically a commencement speech (the length being about 10 minutes) is given by a notable, successful, stimulating figure well-known in the community, nationally or internationally. While some colleges and universities may enhance their prestige by bringing in high-profile speakers (University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island School of Design, Roger Williams University, and Providence College) sometimes at great cost, others like Brown University, unique among Ivy League institutions, features graduating seniors, rather than outside dignitaries, as their commencement speakers. This year, Rhode Island College,
under graduate and graduate commencement speakers are Rhode Islanders.

So, I say to Presidents of Colleges and Universities, with your tight budgets you can save a little money by not bringing in high paid commencement speakers. As can be seen below, there are many potential    commencement speakers in local communities throughout the state who fly below the radar screen and can give college graduates sound strategies for success gleaned from their life experiences. They give road maps on how one can live a more healthy fulfilling life, mature in a way to realize their potential and age gracefully in a challenging and quickly changing world.

Jesse Nemerofsky, 60, Providence, Professional Commercial Photographer. “Always remember that everyone you meet in life can be a potential or future client. This being said, a positive introduction of yourself is a valuable way to be called to work together on projects, even to be hired for future jobs. George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States, has stated in interviews that when he meets someone he gets their business card, and at birthdays, Christmas time, or when the person is honored, he sends them a personal note. By taking time to acknowledge people over the lifetime of his career, the former President is highly respected by those he has encountered, even if his political position or business venture was successful or not.   Honesty and representing your capabilities is of course of the utmost importance, and small gestures like sending a personal note can ultimately have great impact, but excellence in your work should be your main goal.”

Michael Cassidy, 66, Pawtucket, Retired. “As you go into the ‘real’ world from the sheltered ‘world of college’ don’t be too quick to judge the new people you meet in the work place.  People come in all types, sizes, shapes, temperaments, personalities, ages, and backgrounds; and they all have their own experiences from which you can learn. If you are smart enough to listen to what others have to offer, you can learn from them not only what to do, but what not to do. And most times learning what not to do is the most valuable lesson you can have.”

Olon Reeder, 55, North Providence, Reeder Associates Public Relations. “Become adaptable to constant changes in your life. Today’s global environment demands that you must become faster, better and smarter and compete with yourself and everyone else to survive socially. You have to embrace non-stop learning, empower yourself with your own resources, have an independent attitude and create value for who you really are and what you want to be to shape your quality of life for the future!”

Michelle Godin, 50, Vice President, New England Economic Development Services, Inc. “Live each day of your life with integrity. Whether in your personal life or professional life, integrity will define you as a person.  Never waiver.  When your days on earth are ended, it is your integrity that others will remember.   Those who live with integrity will be fondly remembered and missed, because with integrity comes many other admirable qualities such as compassion, empathy, tolerance, and understanding.  Those lacking integrity will be discussed with disdain and quickly forgotten.  Choose to become exemplary.”

Paul Audette, 85, Pawtucket, semi-retired businessman. “The Youth of today — from puberty to whatever age one reaches maturity – tend to see life as it pertains to them, yet each person is responsible for him or herself.  While the youth may have the knowledge, they lack the life experience which is the main factor in making good sound judgments that ultimately affect (your) well-being as well as that of your loved ones. While experience cannot be taught, it cannot be overlooked as a major component in making sound decisions that affect your future.experience comes from living – and life is a journey.”

Joan Retsinas, 67, Providence, a writer. “Savor, savor, savor. Savor the sunshine, and the rain. Savor your friends, your family, your colleagues. Nurture the people close to you. Be a friend. Fall in love. If you fall out of love, fall in again. Read “Winnie the Pooh” to a child. Eat ice cream. Ride a bike. Swim in the ocean. Laugh. As for fame, fortune, and success, don’t fret. They don’t really matter.”

Rick Wahlberg, 61, Senior Project Manager, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island. Be Useful, there is no feeling like making the world a better place. Be Aware, strike a balance between career, family, friends, and community. Be Grateful for what you have, don’t be jealous of what you don’t have, and share.

Wendy Jencks, 61, Cumberland, Visitor Center Manager, Blackstone Valley Visitor Center. “There may be a time in young people’s lives when they are nervous to take a risk, don’t be afraid to take a chance. If an opportunity/life experience arises and you want it, take it even if it is unconventional. You may not get another opportunity again. Also, a person’s first job is not the end all be all. Your dream job may actually be something you did not study. People confine themselves to their own walls.”

Larry Sullivan, 49, Pawtucket, Director, Net Compliance Solution’s technical & consulting services. “Recognize opportunity. If you can’t identify opportunities, then they are very likely to sneak past you unnoticed. Most people’s search criteria is so narrow in focus that it can essentially blind them to opportunities available right in front of their face. It’s the old “can’t see the forest for the trees” scenario. Also, see yourself as a valuable asset. Your self-image will make a huge difference in the type of opportunities you attract to yourself. If you see yourself as a valuable asset, and you present yourself as such, others will see you that way as well.”

Denise Panichas, 50, Woonsocket, Executive Director of The Samaritans of Rhode Island. “Respect cannot be given when asked for, it has to be earned.” This is something you learn later in life. How do you earn respect from those around you? By being true to yourself – your values, beliefs and most importantly to your commitments to family, friends and the community.”

Ken McGill, 51, Pawtucket, Register of Voters, City of Pawtucket. “Find time to give back to your community. In the years to come you will be looking for a good job, getting married, having children and getting on with life. Never forget those in need in your community. Mentoring children, giving time to a soup kitchen, volunteering to help civic groups in your city or town or just helping a neighbor will give you more reward than any salary or position in the corporate world.“

Gail Solomon, 59, Pawtucket, Gail Solomon, Inc., a graphic design company. “You’re not the most unqualified or least knowledgeable person in the room. Everyone else thinks they are. And anyway it’s much more elegant to ask questions than to behave like you know all the answers. Because nobody does. Ever.”

Susan Sweet, 72, Rumford, former state administrator, non- profit lobbyist and advocate. “In the short space that we are in the world, we must create meaning in our lives by contributing to the happiness and well-being of other people and other sentient beings. To do good and useful work, caring and acting for the betterment of others is the true goal of life.”

Bob Billington, President of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council who received his Doctorate in Education from Johnson & Wales University in 2005, says that “Star Power Sells” when seeking out a commencement speaker. “We have regular people walking amongst us who do very extraordinary things everyday but they may never get a chance to give a commencement speech at a college or university,” he notes.

If so, I say that it’s a shame.

Herb Weiss, LRI ’12, is a writer who covers aging, health care and medical issues. He can be reached at hweissri@aol.com.