Every struggle we overcame added to our story.
Let's reflect on our journey and how we've become the people we are at this very moment.
But most importantly, I ask that you uncover what it is that led you to unapologetically
be you, embrace it, and never, ever let it go.
Everything in your life and career prepared you to heed the call to make the film "Daughters of Mother India."
You created a work not of outrage, but of hope.
Vibha Bakshi, filmmaker, journalist, social activist, we celebrate your indomitable spirit
with the degree Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa.
“This is not about politics, this is about saving lives.”
Broadcast in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, those words introduced you to the world.
The circumstances were unfortunate, but San Juan, Puerto Rico is most fortunate to have
a mayor willing to speak for them.
We bestow upon you, Carmen Yulin Cruz Soto, the degree Doctor of Laws honoris causa.
Artistry defines your medical and scientific career.
A recent analysis of Google search citations ranked you as the 24th most cited researcher
of all time.
As one of the principal architects of the President's emerging plan for AIDS relief,
you helped save million of lives throughout the developing world.
Anthony S Fauci, scientist, physician, humanitarian, it is with gratitude and deepest respect that
we confer upon you the degree Doctor of Science honoris causa.
Your body of work has grown to include ballet, opera, and even olympic ceremonies.
The opening and closing of the 2008 Beijing games left the world in awe of their unparalleled
beauty and magnificence.
Zhang Yimou, from farmhand, to factory worker, to filmmaker, Boston University is proud to
confer upon you the degree Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa.
You stand before us as an icon of the civil rights movement, but also as a reminder that
the fight for justice is never easy and is never over.
John Lewis, Congressman, leader, inspiration, voice of our collective conscience, it is
with both admiration and gratitude, and pride, that we confer upon you the degree
Doctor of Laws honoris causa.
This is a great day.
This is your day.
Enjoy it!
Take a long, big, breath.
Take it all in.
Roll up your sleeves, because the world is waiting for you.
The world would like for you to find a way to get in the way, or get in what I call "good
trouble," necessary trouble.
Be hopeful, be optimistic.
Don't get lost in the sea of despair, but be bold, be courageous, and all will work out.
Thank you very much.
To all of the class of 2018, your Boston University education has prepared you well.
Go in the world and make it a better place for all of us, and for all future generations.
And as you do, remember that you sat on Nickerson Field in the spring of the 50th year of the
passing of Dr. Martin Luther King, and recall his words "the moral arc of the universe is
long, but bends toward justice."
Again, congratulations.