Description of the video:

[MUSIC]

Congratulations to you, Indiana University Kokomo's

Class of 2020.

Since IU Kokomo's 51st Commencement Ceremony has been

postponed, I wanted to take this time to tell you how proud we

are of each and every one of you for completing your degree in

these unusual circumstances.

You have proven that you are resilient and adaptable.

Attributes that will serve you well in both your profession and

your career.

I never thought that I would be congratulating our graduating

seniors on Zoom.

It is beyond anyone's imagination.

But here we are.

You are now joining 15,000 IU Kokomo alumni who are now out

making a difference in our communities, our regions, our

state and even the world.

It is my honor and privilege to deliver this message to you, the

651 members of the Class of 2020.

These students represent 41 Indiana counties, 12 states and

16 different countries.

You know, when I think about all of your individual journeys to

complete your degree, I have been inspired by your personal

stories.

And your successful outcomes.

I have learned about your -- how you have persevered and how you

have dug deep to find your passions.

All of you have a story to tell.

Something to be proud of.

I typically would ask each member of the class to stand as

I mention some of these achievements.

So, if you're at home watching this video and as I ask the

questions and you can answer, please stand.

Stand for all of the accomplishments that you have

done at IU Kokomo.

So, let's get started.

Are you the first in your family to graduate from college?

Stand up.

I know if you're an adult student that you have probably

struggled a little bit.

It's been a tough journey to balance school, family and work.

And I am to appreciative to all of our Veterans who served this

country while earning your degrees.

Pat yourself on the back if you overcame some obstacle, whether

it be health or the loss of a loved one while you completed

your degree.

And kudos to you if you've already landed a job upon

graduation.

For our student athletes, you should be proud about how you

balanced athletics with academics.

And finally, it's a big way to go for all of you who are going

onto Graduate School or professional school.

You have earned an Indiana University diploma.

Each and every one of you have worked very hard for this

prestigious degree that commands respect and instills pride.

My wish is that I will have the opportunity to actually hand you

a diploma in person sometime this fall.

But until then, please know that all of the faculty and staff at

Indiana University Kokomo are so proud of you.

Congratulations, Class of 2020.

 [MUSIC]