My name is Thomas Matallana, and I’m from Louisville, Kentucky, and I’m part of the graduating class of 2024.

My name is Kopila Rai. I was born in Nepal. I’m from Lexington, Kentucky, and I’m graduating class of 2024.

I’m William Fries. I’m from Northern Kentucky, and I’m part of the graduating class of 2024.

I’m Olivia Miller. I’m from Owensboro, Kentucky, and I’m in the graduating class of 2024.

My name is Lily Callahan. I am from Harrisburg, Missouri, and I am in the graduating class of 2024.

My name Jenna Shalash. I am from the West Bank of Palestine, and I am from the graduating class of 2024.

As I stand here, I cannot help but feel a surge of honor and pride. Honored by being here, but also pride in ourselves.

Our journey as a class of 2024 is a testament to our determination to succeed, grow, persevere and adapt.

We’ve been set out on the path to achieve our dreams. And while other universities make this same affirmation, here at Transy, it’s the truth.

The education we have received, the life lessons learned, the amazing opportunities and experiences we’ve had. And the relationships we’ve built over these last four years have prepared us for the next steps in our lives.

“For the salt, the sweat above our brows — I know you’re hungry, So take a bite out of the rhythm of life and realize what we do now.”

I urge everyone here to not give up on their dreams, to not give up on that special part of you.

Let us carry with us the lessons we have learned. The values we hold dear, and the unwavering belief that a better world is not only possible, but something we can accomplish.

Let us embrace the challenges that lie ahead of us with courage and determination, knowing that we’re capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes our way and knowing that it is through adversity that we truly discover our potential.

Let us be the change we wish to see in the world, the architects of a brighter tomorrow, and the champions of justice, equality and human dignity for all.

Today is your day. So let the joy, the sadness and the fear fill you.

Go down the path that is set for you. Endure the hardships that will come your way and achieve your dreams and be the person you always wanted to be.

We got the privilege to pursue a Transy education. To follow through with what we wanted to do with our lives. To live happily, make merry and make friendships, and memories here.

Transylvania will never really leave us. This is a place we will always be welcomed back, that will always be supporting and cheering us on.