In his Fall 2024 Commencement address, Kent State University President Todd Diacon delivered a heartfelt and memorable message to the graduating class, blending personal experience with words of encouragement that resonated deeply with the 2,500 new graduates.
Drawing from a pivotal moment early in his own academic career, Diacon shared a transformative story from his first trip to Brazil in 1982 that perfectly illustrates the true meaning of perseverance and overcoming unexpected challenges. Despite his extensive preparation — including graduate studies in Brazilian history and language proficiency — he found himself momentarily overwhelmed by a simple misunderstanding at customs that threatened to shake his confidence.
“You've Got This” became the central theme of his speech, a phrase that encapsulates both the graduates’ potential and the reality of navigating life’s unpredictable moments.
Watch the president’s commencement address:
Diacon candidly described how even the most prepared individuals could face unexpected obstacles, using his own humorous misunderstanding with a Brazilian customs official as a powerful metaphor for resilience.
“Do NOT panic when these things happen,” he advised the graduates, emphasizing that mistakes and misunderstandings are part of the journey.
His own story of turning a potentially embarrassing moment into a decades-long career of teaching and writing about Brazil served as living proof of the power of persistence.
The president celebrated the graduates’ remarkable achievements, acknowledging the hard work, study and determination that brought them to this milestone.
“You have the training, you have the experience, the knowledge and, yes, even the wisdom to succeed,” Diacon said.
Concluding his address with a mix of humor and heartfelt pride, he offered one final piece of advice: cross the stage, don’t trip and embrace the future with confidence. His words encapsulated the spirit of the Kent State Golden Flashes — resilient, prepared and ready to make their mark on the world.