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Weiss Words: A Retrospective Look at Commencement Speech Advice

Published in RINewsToday on May 11, 2026

With the arrival of spring and college graduation season, I am returning to a personal tradition. Once again, it is time for me to pen my annual commencement-style commentary saluting the more than 12,000 graduates receiving Bachelor’s degrees in 2026 from Rhode Island’s 12 accredited colleges and universities. Through this weekly commentary, I aim to provide these seniors with a unique roadmap for achieving both personal fulfillment and professional success.

Throughout May and June, these robed graduates will hopefully listen intently to commencement addresses—typically over 12 minutes in length (around 1,400 words). The speakers, who include lawmakers, judges, media personalities, and even CEOs, offer their personal observations and advice to guide the next generation.

Some of this year’s confirmed speakers include:

·         Ashley Judd (Actress and activist) at New England Institute of Technology, May 3;

·         Matthew Slater (Former New England Patriots captain) at Providence College, May 17;

·         Marc Randolph (Netflix co-founder) at the University of Rhode Island, May 15;

·         Ray Suarez (Journalist and author) at Salve Regina University, May 17;

·         Julie Mehretu (Artist) at Rhode Island School of Design, May 30;

·         Amy C. Edmondson (Harvard Business School professor) at Bryant University, May 16;

·         Dan Barry (Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist) at CCRI, May 12.

Brown University, unlike any other Ivy League institution or Rhode Island college, designates a graduating senior as its commencement speaker rather than inviting an outside dignitary.

Reflecting on the evolution of my addresses across the years helps, I provide you with a sampling, with advice that might just be valuable for this year’s graduates.

This year’s commencement speech offers a sampling of advice from previous graduating classes, drawing on reflections from earlier addresses. Though delivered in different moments, many of the themes remain relevant today, highlighting enduring lessons on growth, resilience, and purpose that may still benefit the 2026 graduates as they move forward.

Since 2008, I have written 12 commencement commentaries designed to prepare new graduates for the road ahead. I drew on AI, Stoicism, real-life experiences, and advice from Rhode Island authors to inspire seniors.

From 2014 to 2017, I shared insights from 53 everyday Rhode Islanders in my speeches, reminding graduates that valuable lessons often come from people in their own communities, not just high-profile speakers.

These individuals were everyday Rhode Islanders whose practical advice stemmed from lived experience. The core message: real-life experience is as valuable as prestige. Here is a sampling of their observations from my speeches:

Joan Retsinas, a Providence writer, offered her thoughts to the graduating seniors in 2014.  “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 love 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,” she says.

Wendy Jencks, Cumberland, Visitor Center Manager at the Blackstone Valley Visitor Center, gave this advice in my 2014 commencement speech: “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 or life experience arises and you want it, take it, even if it is unconventional. You may not get another opportunity again.”

Your first job is not necessarily your dream job,” says Jencks, 61. “You may discover your dream career outside your field of study. Don’t confine yourself to expectations.

Listen to their advice.

Carol Conley, assistant to the executive director of the Rhode Island Film Office, stressed, “Be grateful.” Be kind. Karma is a real thing. Give to others what you would like to receive, and it will eventually come back to you. Wait for it: trust the universe’s timing. Challenge yourself. Conquer your fears. Never, ever give up.

In my 2015 commencement speech, Kathy Needham, Rumford, Controller, of Blackstone Valley Call & Times, suggested: “Follow the old adage, ‘Autograph your work with excellence, it is a signature of who you are.”  Take great pride in all you do, but always remember to be humble.”

Cheryl Babiec, Pawtucket, Pawtucket School Teacher, gave her thoughts to the graduating seniors that year. “As an old saying goes…’One Man’s Junk is Another Man’s Treasure continues to hold true over the test of time. One of my year sale finds had the following inspirational verse (though the author is unknown): Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the number of moments that take our breath away.’

Wayne Rosenberg, Providence real estate broker and construction manager, advised the graduating seniors in 2016: “Most college degrees are not going to be your ticket to financial freedom. The most important challenge you will face is finding meaningful work. You must realize that no one can do this for you but yourself. Take charge. If you cannot find employment, consider being your own boss and employ yourself.”

In 2017, Nora Hall, North Kingston, freelance writer, recommended: “Empathy may be the most important life skill you can develop. It enables you to ‘put yourself in another’s shoes’ and makes you a great leader.”

And Susan Sweet, Rumford, former associate director at the RI Dept. of Elderly Afrairs and social advocate, added: “Make your own trail and avoid the well-worn path. Find interests and passions and live them. Create purpose in your life. Do something good, something useful in your life. Contribute to the happiness and well-being of other beings. Let Death be your advisor.”

In 2018, members of the Association of Rhode Island Authors offered advice on aging gracefully in a very challenging, constantly changing world.

Victoria Corliss of Cumberland, author of three books, shared this with graduates: “Sometimes, when you think things are falling apart, they’re really just falling into place. So, in times of chaos—which will come—take a deep breath, step back, and be still; it helps you see things more clearly. Here’s another piece of advice: ‘It’s not what happens to you that matters most, but how you react to it.’ Taking things in stride is a lifelong skill.”

Throughout these speeches, seniors were urged to be adaptable in an ever-changing world. Flexibility and ongoing learning will help you weather recessions, job market shifts, or AI disruption.

Glede Browne Kabongo, author and marketing consultant living in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, gave her two cents: “If you live for the approval of others, you will die by their criticism. Take your time and figure out who you are and what you want in life. It’s OK if it takes you a while; the journey is as important as the destination. You will have many failures and make many mistakes. Don’t hide from them. It’s part of your journey. Be kind to yourself and others. Kindness is powerful and can change the world.”

Continuing this pattern, the 2022 commencement speech integrated the themes of resilience, social connection, and lifelong learning and emphasized their importance in successfully navigating your life’s path. It also reaffirmed the central idea that aging is not something to be feared, but embraced as an ongoing process of growth.

Looking ahead to 2024, my commencement speech offered advice to the graduating seniors, drawing on stoicism, a school of Hellenistic philosophy that thrived in Ancient Greece and Rome. Five quoted philosophers encourage alignment with values to find a meaningful purpose in life, maintain inner peace, and appreciate the beauty and wonders of the world.

Seneca the Younger, who lived in the 1st Century CE, said: “True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.” Don’t be consumed by worry and anxiety about the future obstacles you may face, because in all probability the problems will never happen,” he said.

Great advice for graduating seniors from the Roman Stoic philosopher, statesman, and playwright who lived almost 2,000 years ago.

The 2025 speech offered fresh advice: I drew on artificial intelligence and collective wisdom, referencing 64 cards with personal growth principles designed by Hypnotist John Koening. Eight cards, chosen at random, provided valuable lessons for the 2025 graduates, each of which is explored in this commentary.

Taken together, these reflections show that even as life changes, many of its core challenges and opportunities stay familiar. My hope is that something in these words speaks to you—and that you carry it with you as you move into whatever comes next.

___

A complete listing of Herb Weiss’s Commencement Speeches:

“Unlocking Life’s Lessons: A Commencement Message Drawn from the Cards,” May 19, 2025 — https://rinewstoday.com/unlocking-lifes-lessons-a-commencement-message-drawn-from-the-cards-herb-weiss/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

“Stoic Tips for the Class of 2024,” May  27, 2024 —   https://herbweiss.blog/2024/05/27/stoic-tips-for-the-class-of-2024/

“Can AI Create an Authentic’ Commencement Address?,” May 15, 2023 https://rinewstoday.com/can-ai-create-an-authentic-commencement-address-herb-weiss/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

“To the Class of 2022: Age Boldly, Enjoy Your Journey,” May 16, 2022 —  https://rinewstoday.com/to-the-class-of-2022-age-boldly-enjoy-your-journey-herb-weiss/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

“Some Tips to College Seniors,” June 2, 2019 — https://herbweiss.blog/2019/06/02/some-tips-to-college-seniors/

“Rhode Islanders Give Tips to Graduates,” May 14, 2017 —https://herbweiss.blog/2017/05/14/rhode-islanders-give-tips-to-graduates/

“Regular Folks Give Sound Advice to Class of 2016 for Future Success,” June 6, 2016 — https://herbweiss.blog/2016/06/06/regular-folks-give-sound-advice-to-class-of-2016-for-future-success/

“Sensible Advice from Seasoned Folk to the Class of 2015,” May 17, 2015 —https://www.golocalprov.com/news/weiss-sensible-advice-from-seasoned-folk-to-the-class-of-2015?utm_source=chatgpt.com2016-for-

“Regular Folks Give Advice to Graduates,” June 1, 2014 —https://www.golocalprov.com/lifestyle/Regular-Folks-Give-Advice-to-Graduates?utm_source=chatgpt.com

“Here’s My Advice to the Graduating Class of 2013,” May 31, 2013– https://herbweiss.blog/2013/05/31/heres-my-advice-to-the-graduating-class-of-2013/

“A Commencement Speech for the Graduates of 2012,” May 4, 2012 — https://herbweiss.blog/2012/05/04/a-commencement-speech-for-the-graduates-of-2012-5-2/

“Your Later Years: A Commencement Speech for Graduates of 2008,” June 13,  2008 —  Your Later Years: A Commencement Speech for the Graduates of 2008

Some Tips to College Seniors

Published in t he Woonsocket Call on June 2, 2019

Throughout May and June, robed college graduates at Rhode Island’s 11 Colleges and Universities listened to commencement speeches delivered by well-known lawmakers, judges, television personalities, actors, and chief executive officers of businesses. These included: former congressman Patrick J. Kennedy at University of Rhode Island; Bryan Stevenson, a widely acclaimed public interest lawyer, at Rhode Island School of Design; and actor and director John Krasinski, at Brown University. Many of the orators advised the young adults on how to create a more rewarding personal and professional life in their later years.

Members of the Association of Rhode Island Authors (ARIA), from their life experiences, also have insightful tips on aging gracefully in a very challenging and constantly changing world to give to the Class of 2019, and some of what the authors would have said if they had been invited to speak follows.

Co-authors Victoria Corliss, (a resident of Cumberland) and Leigh Brown, (from Warwick) have written three books. The newest book, “The Pendulum’s Truth,” published in 2018, is a story of Ava Dell, a protagonist with a twist. Like many people, Ava firmly believes that everything happens for a reason; but unlike her friends and family, she also believes she knows why they happen. She happily shares her intuitive insights with the people she loves providing them guidance and affirmations until the day her awareness fails her. When tragedy results, Ava suddenly finds herself in a moral and emotional dilemma. For Details, go to http://www.browncorlissbooks.com.

Commencement Tips: “Sometimes, when you think things are falling apart, they’re really just falling into place. So, in times of chaos, of which there will be many, take a deep breath, a step back and be still; it will help you to see the sense of things. One more piece of advice: ‘It’s not what happens to you that matters most, but how you react to it.’ Taking things in stride is a skill that keeps on giving.”

Dana Gambardella, 42, a Reading Specialist, resides in North Providence. She has written two children’s books, “Mama Bear’s Magic” and Grandma’s House,” published in 2018. In “Mama Bear’s Magic, Tiny Bear realizes that bath time is “bear” fun! This humorous, truth-telling tale illustrates how Mama Bear embraces Tiny Bear’s process so he can overcome his apprehension for the bath and discover that bathing is enjoyable. With brother Bear’s modeling and Mama Bear’s clever approach, it’s like magic! Savor the sounds, tastes, smells and feelings that come alive only at “Grandma’s House.” The illustrations in this book replicate the author’s grandmother’s house that still stands in Providence, Rhode Island. Vivid memories come alive through the light, impressionistic watercolor techniques on each page that evoke feelings of nostalgia for readers of all ages. For details, go to http://www.literacychefpublishing.com.
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Commencement Tips: “Always savor your own story. It’s made up of the best ingredients. My two passions, literacy and culinary arts, have nurtured my story since graduating college. Being a reading specialist educating the highest priority reader is not that different from being a chef enthusiast. Experts in both areas must combine the right ingredients and practices to create a successful recipe that reaches many individual learners and palettes. Embrace Literacy. Live to Learn. Love Your Process.”

Gledé Browne Kabongo, 45, author and marketing consultant, living in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. She has written four novels, the latest, the award-winning “Autumn of Fear,” published in 2018. In her tome, College student Abbie Cooper’s dream of becoming a surgeon is shattered when she wakes up in the hospital after a violent assault with no memory of the attack. To uncover the truth of what happened that night, Abbie must confront a stunning web of lies that stretch back decades, and a vicious predator who is willing to kill to protect his secret. For details, go to http://www.gledekabongo.com.

Commencement Tips: “If you live for the approval of others, you will die by their criticism. So, take your time and figure out who you are and what you want in life. It’s OK if it takes a while, the journey is as important as the destination. You will have many failures and make many mistakes. Don’t hide from them. It’s part of the journey. Be kind to yourself and others. Kindness is powerful and can change the world.”

Sheryl Lynn Kimball, 51, a resident of North Smithfield and owner of Kimball Property Maintenance. In 2019, she published “The Witches’ Antidote: Abigail’s.” In this book, when best friends Evan and Valarie hear that a tiny island on the Blackstone River is haunted, they have to see it for themselves. Once there, they discover an enchanted book instructing them how to put Salem Witch Trials victim Abigail Carver to rest. The teens will have to draw on all their strength if they are to survive the night and bring peace to a tortured soul. For details, go to http://www.Amazon.com.

Commencement Tips: “Follow your dreams. Many things will come along to throw you off your intended path. You’ll tell yourself you’re only taking a short detour but suddenly you’ve become just another hamster on the wheel. Understand that a few tiny steps in the direction of your heart are so much more valuable than any strides you make that go against your grain.”

Richard T. Rook, 71, a lawyer from Wrentham, Massachusetts. The basic plot of his book, “Tiernan’s Wake,” is a real-life historical mystery. An unlikely team apply their different skills to locate the only identifiable portrait, and maybe the missing treasure, of the iconic 16th-century Irish Pirate Queen (and political operative) Grace O’Malley. But it’s also a story of damaged adults confronting their mortality and looking for the “missing portraits” of themselves. Sometimes the important messages are delivered by ancestral spirits, if we’re smart enough to listen. For details, go to http://www.richardrook.com.

Commencement Tips: “Advice: Congratulations! You’ve accomplished a great deal, but not enough. Savor it, then start thinking about your obituary. By that I mean your legacy, how you want to be remembered. If you’re not careful, life will eat your dreams one small bite at a time, and you won’t even notice. I put off writing for 50 years, one day at a time. Be smarter. Draft your legacy now, then go make it happen.”

Angelina Singer, 22, an entrepreneur and crochet artist, lives in Boson, Massachusetts. She is author of “The Sorting” (Book 1 of the Upperworld Series), published in 2017. When asked to describe her book, Singer says: “Who decides where we are born and who we love? Luna is an immortal entity in the Upperworld learning how to assign human souls to bodies. Everything goes well until Luna’s friend makes a major mistake and Luna is sent to Earth after covering for her. For details, go to angelinasingerauthor.wordpress.com.

Commencement Tip: “Life is a lot like writing a book. Even if you haven’t formally published anything in the literal sense (or even want to), everyone has the power to write their own life story. This is both equal parts exciting and scary, but that’s why I write – to make sense of everything I can’t understand or even to get a second chance at something I’d like to redo.”

Dana Vacca, a college instructor, residing in Narragansett. Her historical fiction tome, “A Civil War Slave Escapes by Sea,” was published in 2018. When asked to describe this book, she says: “A storm at sea, a voyage aboard a whaling ship, the battlefields of Virginia, the Great Dismal Swamp, perilous escapes, a forbidden romance, – change the life of a run-away slave, forever. This epic journey to freedom in the midst of the Civil War is an unforgettable story of strength, determination and love. Historically accurate, action-packed adventure.” For details, go to http://www.amazon.com.

Commencement Tips: “You have come of age with purpose, with desires, with resolve and probably, also with fears. Do not be ashamed of those fears. Do not merely react to them letting them dictate your journey or paralyze you into stasis. But, do not expect to find a magic potion to make them disappear. Instead, dominate fear; – take up the reins and steer your life, in spite of it. The face of fear may change with age, but it will always be your traveling companion. If you keep your eyes on what is honest, what is just and forge ahead, you can be its master.”

Mary Catherine Volk, over age 55, is a life coach residing in Narragansett. In her book, “Believe in Forever: How to Recognize Signs from Departed Loved Ones,” published in 2015, she details firsthand experiences of people being contacted by their deceased family members and friends. She says that the humorous and heartwarming stories will give you chills as they touch your heart; teaching you to trust your own intuition. It was not just your imagination or an odd coincidence. Our loved ones are near shortly after passing to help us with our grief and to let us know their consciousness and love for us is eternal. For details, go to http://www.marycatherinevolk.com.

Commencement Tips: “What did you enjoy playing as a child in the third or fourth grade? What gave you Joy? Your answer holds a valuable key to your unique gift. Embrace your uniqueness! Follow your dreams, you will have support along the way, it’s all part of the journey to discover you and your special gifts. Don’t be afraid to share your gift with the world. Humanity needs you!”

For more information about the ARIA go to http://www.riauthors.org.