Drawing from personal experiences growing up in rural Kansas, Kent State University President Todd Diacon shared how the low-level anxiety of temporary disorientation on country backroads taught him valuable life lessons that remain relevant today.
“My message to you today, graduates, is that it is ok not to be fully certain about something,” President Diacon told the enthusiastic crowds. “Being uncertain and even experiencing a bit of anxiety because of that uncertainty, is also ok.”
Watch President Diacon’s address:
In a time when many graduates face questions about their futures, Diacon’s message resonated with many in the audience as he explained how uncertainty can foster growth, empathy and openness to new ideas.
“Being uncertain can be healthy,” he said. “It can lead us to consider alternatives. It can lead to growth by keeping your mind open to different ways of doing things. It can lead to empathy, and even to kindness and respect as those around you wrestle with their own uncertainties.”
The Danger of Overconfidence
President Diacon warned against what his father called “WAGOEs” – “World’s Greatest Authority on Everything” – people who believe they know everything and dismiss differing viewpoints.
“We seem to be living in a WAGOE world right now,” Diacon observed. “We seem to have lost all shades of gray. We seem to be losing the empathy that can be generated by uncertainty.”
He challenged graduates to resist the temptation of absolute certainty, which can close minds and hearts to diverse perspectives.
“When a person knows everything, why bother to listen to others with different viewpoints?” he asked rhetorically. “Embrace uncertainty. Resist the temptation to think that you are right, and right about everything, and right all the time.”
A Proud Moment for the Kent State Community
The ceremonies marked the culmination of years of hard work, determination and growth for approximately 5,400 graduates who received their diplomas during three separate ceremonies over the weekend.
“I am so proud of each of you, and it is a great honor to celebrate and honor your success,” President Diacon told the graduates at the beginning of his address.
Despite his encouragement to embrace uncertainty, President Diacon concluded with absolute confidence in one area: his pride in the graduating class.
“Although I am uncertain about what the future will bring, I am certain about this: you are Golden Flashes, and soon you will be graduates of Kent State,” Diacon said to thunderous applause. “I salute you, and GO FLASHES!”