Unforgettable Lesson from an Unexpected Graduation Speech

Sometimes, life surprises you with a special moment that leaves an indelible mark on your memory. We experienced such a moment recently at the University of Michigan.

Our son’s graduation ceremony was held at the Crisler Center, the university’s basketball stadium. He was decked out in his regalia, and as we made our way there, strangers would stop to wish him “Congratulations!” . Cars honked, and drivers leaned out to shout their good wishes. It was heartwarming to see so many strangers cheering for a young person’s achievement.

After the ceremony, we hopped onto the university bus to head home. The bus was filled with other students and their families. Once everyone was on board, the driver stood up. He was an imposing, tall, and broad African American man whose head nearly touched the ceiling. He commanded our attention with his booming voice.

“Congratulations to all the new graduates!” he announced. Then he invited the graduates to come to the front of the bus. About nine or ten students made their way up and faced us. He asked them to share their names and departments, which they did one by one.
“Ladies and Gentlemen,” the driver proclaimed, “I present to you, the graduates of the University of Michigan!” The bus erupted in joyful applause at this impromptu celebration.

As the students beamed and returned to their seats, he continued, 
“Wherever you go, remember that you are the best among the best. But you don’t need to say so — let your work speak for itself. This is the U of M way: we come, we do the job quietly, and we do it well.
I am sure that U of M has made you better people. But I want you to know that you make U of M better, you make us better. And for that, I want to thank you all.
Remember, you will always be part of the U of M family. Wherever you go, when you see the big M, you know that you are home! 
Congratulations, and I wish you all the best! Go Blue!”

We were completely blown away by his speech. It made a bigger impact than any of the formal addresses by accomplished speakers at the commencement. It was a reflection of the work ethic that values quiet excellence, an expression of gratitude and service. It was genuine and heartfelt, and it spoke volumes about the attitude this bus driver brought to his job, the pride he felt in his institution and its people. Whether it is the American culture, or the UofM culture, or just the individual ethos, this is simply outstanding. Every person, no matter their role, has the power to make a meaningful impact. It is not the person’s status or wealth or education or any such parameter, but this work ethic and genuine concern for people that makes the difference.

We don’t know his name, and we didn’t take any pictures or videos, but the memory is crystal clear in my mind’s eye. It touched us to our core and made the moment truly special. In fact, this is probably the highlight of our trip.