Advocate for learning, Garber encourages graduates

In his second Baccalaureate address, Harvard President Alan Garber emphasized to the Class of 2025 the significance of education and those who provide it in the pursuit of wisdom.

“The most effective way to honor Harvard — and what this experience has represented for you — is to champion education,” Garber addressed the assembly at Tercentenary Theatre on Tuesday afternoon. “Everything we could possibly achieve — ethically, scientifically, technologically, and even financially — is rooted in learning. Where else are you more likely to discover a journey to knowledge and all that it unleashes for humanity than through education?”

Garber’s speech concluded this year’s interfaith ceremony celebrating undergraduates, a practice originating from Harvard’s inaugural Commencement in 1642. The president’s call to advocate for education emerges amidst federal budget cuts impacting the University, which will influence research across all fields, including medicine and Garber’s area of specialization — economics.

During his address, Garber — who completed his studies summa cum laude at Harvard College in 1976 — took a moment to express gratitude to the educators who guided him towards his career path, urging the impending graduates to do likewise. He specifically acknowledged his resident tutor in Dunster House, Jerome Culp, who recommended he shift his concentration from biochemistry to economics.

“Our discussion changed my life. I reminisce about it even today. Who motivated you? Who provided the attention and gentle encouragement you required at the right moment? Who ignited your true aspirations? Reach out to that mentor whom you’ve intended to contact, as they may not realize the impact they had on you.”

Throughout the ceremony, spiritual leaders from across the University commended the Class of 2025 and blessed their future endeavors. Likewise, several speakers, including Garber, took time to honor their past.

“If you are present today, it’s because you are the descendants of individuals from around the globe who have endured hardships and migrations and oppressions and freedoms, solely to allow you to gather here today,” remarked the Rev. Matthew Ichihashi Potts, the Plummer Professor of Christian Morals and Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church.

He went on, “You are the realization of your ancestors’ dreams and aspirations. You embody their hopes come to fruition. The past resides within you, but so does the future, as you harbor your own ambitions and aspirations of all you can be and all you will evolve into from this point onward.”

The Rev. Gloria White-Hammond, a retired medical professional and the current Swartz Resident Practitioner in Ministry Studies at Harvard Divinity School, also considered the influence of past generations, noting notable differences from her own graduation from Harvard College in 1972.

“The relative diversity of your class in comparison to ours is a compelling testament that we have remained true to our endeavors,” she stated. “And as the challenge endures, I wish for you to understand that we are not here to hand our torches to you. Yes, we may be older, but no, we are not gone. We are here to fuel the flame of your torch.”

Garber concluded by extending one final good luck to students prior to Commencement on Thursday.

“May these last 44 hours, give or take a few minutes, be filled with chances to celebrate the distance you’ve come since your arrival. You have achieved so much. Take a moment to rest on your accomplishments, but not for too long. The world, with its infinite stunning destinations, eagerly awaits you.”