“Today you are as free as you will ever be to make big plans, take calculated risks and leave your mark.” – Chancellor Daniel Diermeier
What does it mean to live a life worthy of a Vanderbilt education? Chancellor Daniel Diermeier called on the Class of 2026 to take their extraordinary education, research opportunities and strong collaborative values to boldly live out the university’s motto, Crescere aude, dare to grow.
“Today you are as free as you will ever be to make big plans, take calculated risks and leave your mark,” Diermeier said. “Playing it safe robs you of the opportunities and lessons that come from daring great things. Worse, it robs the world of the gifts you have to share—gifts the world sorely needs.”
Diermeier lauded Vanderbilt students for their partnership in the university’s extraordinary recent accomplishments.
He highlighted the university’s dynamic coast-to-coast growth and innovation initiatives; faculty and student research on ambitious solutions to the world’s greatest challenges; academic excellence partnered with dynamic athletics; and an environment for free expression and thoughtful conversations across differences.
“We are defining what it means to be the great university of the 21st century. This has been the most successful year in our history, and you, Class of 2026, have been at the center of it,” Diermeier said. “By virtue of who you are and what you have achieved, you have helped make this university extraordinary.”
Diermeier urged students to be self-assured and intentional about their goals.
“A life lived with purpose is a courageous life,” Diermeier said. “Let today be your first step. Not toward a future that is little, but one that is bold and born of your truest self.”
SPECIAL HONORS
Before the chancellor’s address, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs C. Cybele Raver recognized faculty who received distinguished teaching awards.
- Emily Pendergrass, professor of the practice of literacy and program director for reading education
- Dan Morgan, associate professor of the practice of earth and environmental sciences, and of climate and environmental studies
- Kendal Broadie, Stevenson Professor of Neurobiology
- Ji Hye Jung, associate professor of percussion
- Emily Ritter, associate professor of political science
Provost Raver recognized the Class of 2026 Founder’s Medalists, who were also celebrated at the Graduates Day event. And she honored retiring faculty members who were granted emerita or emeritus status.
- See all the latest stories from Commencement and the Class of 2026
- Hear the powerful challenge bestselling author and happiness researcher Arthur Brooks gave at the Graduates Day address that could make our lives more meaningful
- Watch: Students share how Vanderbilt’s values have anchored them
- Share your Commencement photos and tag #VU2026
