Monday, June 15, 2026
My Graduation Talk
This is the talk I gave at our graduation celebration in May:
Nine years ago, I moved here and fell in love. I knew I wanted this job when I came out for the interview; I knew I wanted to work with these people in this place in this beautiful city. And I got the job. Then I moved here, met the students, and I fell in love.
This job has been very difficult at times. Very. But for the most part, it’s been utterly delicious.
At times this world can be profoundly delicious. Working here, with these people, in this place, with you students has been just that. Over the next few days, take this deliciousness and gorge on it. Take a beat, take a rest and feast on the amazing experience you just had. Because you will need a rest to face this mess of a world.
I’m not one of those fossilized commencement speakers who’ve come here to lie to you. We are living in a big mess. How do we get through a time like this? With the relationships we forge, the communities we build, and the work we do. These are the things that transform us and the world around us. You see, the world needs good work now. Especially now. Don’t let the corruption and cruelty that surround us keep you from the work you need to do. That I need to do. That we all need to do. As long as we are alive it is our turn to do good work. So long as you have your relationships, your community, and your work, you are part of what is best in the world.
You’ve have had a great example of how to do all of this; by being part of this department with these people, this talented faculty and this amazing staff, in this place. Hold on to this experience and carry it forward.
As you move on, remember the best parts of being a designer. Remember, we take ugly things and we make them beautiful. We take stupid things and make them smart. There is so much ugly stupidity in the world at this moment, the world needs us.. Carry the impact of these talented and passionate professors, this dedicated and remarkable staff, and all of the students you’ve worked with and will continue to work with and do your jobs. But first, rest. And enjoy the deliciousness.
I’m done. Now, it’s your turn to speak to all of the people who got you through. The department coordinators, Professor Saskia van Kampen (Visual Communication Design), Professor Silvan Linn (Industrial Design), and Dr. Hsiao-Yun Chu (the Masters in Design) will read your name and your shout-outs to all of the people, animals, plants, and rocks that got you through this degree. Clapping, calling out, laughing and dancing is all highly encouraged. Today, we feast!,