“Higher education provides a unique environment a place to engage daily with those who hold different perspective. In classrooms respectful debate is encouraged and disagreement is woven into the learning process. On campus students live and learn together actively experiencing the principles of a vibrant diverse democracy. Carry these life skills with you as you move forward. If we are to solve the problems that affect us all we must build our sense of shared humanity and be willing to learn from and help one another.
As you begin this next chapter I challenge you to engage in acts of civility. Start a conversation with someone you might not agree with and might not even like. Yet be willing to see the other side of an issue and an idea and seek opportunities to find common ground.
Higher education is essential to a healthy democracy. It is where we prepare global citizens for careers by providing them with the necessary real life skills I just mentioned. Our colleges and universities remain vital spaces where free expression thrives where challenging questions are asked and where democracy is studied and strengthened. These are not just academic values. They are democratic American values. Values which are embedded into the Salem State experience and testament to our deep commitment to civic engagement. And oh yes, we take great pride in being the Commonwealth Civic Engagement University. We have embedded civic engagement into our classrooms our programs and our very culture. Take what you have learned both in and out of the classroom to strengthen our democracy and to help solve the challenges facing our nation.
Volunteer, get involved, and vote. While not everyone has to run for office, many of your fellow Vikings have, including our Lieutenant Governor. That’s right.
Many have shown us what a difference you can make through public service. So continue to identify the issues that are meaningful to you and find your own way to make an impact. Democracy requires indeed it demands informed participation.”
See more from the 2025 Salem State University Commencement.
Salem State University Commencement was one of seventy campuses participating in From Campus to Community a new national campaign to champion civil discourse and democratic engagement in this year’s commencement season. More from President John Keenan.
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