CEDAR CITY — Former Utah Gov. Michael Leavitt had one word he hoped graduates would hang on to after he delivered the commencement address Thursday at Southern Utah University’s 127th commencement ceremony — convener.
“I define the convener as a person who can see a problem, can bring the right people together, and takes the initiative to try to find a solution,” Leavitt said. “I believe that every graduate will have their career and their community, or their own individual life improved if they learn to use that power we all have to bring people together.”
Former Utah Gov. Michael O. Leavitt gives the keynote address during Southern Utah University’s 127th annual commencement ceremony on Thursday. | Southern Utah University
This year’s graduating class consisted of 3,466 graduates from 43 countries, 49 states and 28 of Utah’s 29 counties. The youngest graduate was just 16 years old, while the oldest was 72.
Leavitt, who grew up in Cedar City, was also presented with the Presidential Medallion of Service during the ceremony — SUU’s highest honor.
Along with emphasizing the need for graduates to be conveners, Leavitt also emphasized the skills that humans can contribute to a rapidly changing world of expanding technology and increased artificial intelligence use.
“Emotional, spiritual and collaborative intelligence are and will remain vital capabilities that a machine cannot replicate,” Leavitt said.
SUU President Mindy Benson offered words of appreciation and encouragement to the graduates.
Southern Utah University President Mindy Benson addresses the crowd during SUU’s 127th annual commencement ceremony on Thursday. | Southern Utah University
“Congratulations, graduates, you are an extraordinary sight to see. Today is a day worthy of the pomp and circumstance, the bell tower, the bagpipes, the teary-eyed parents, the teary-eyed president, and today, we celebrate you,” Benson said.
Benson acknowledged the complex emotions that come through a day of celebration, but also one of reflection on the years of work graduates put in to reach commencement.
“You probably have a lot of mixed emotions today. … Some of you may be wondering if you’re ready. Let me be clear, you are ready,” Benson said. “Class of 2026, go out and change the world. We cherish the moments and memories we’ve made with you at SUU. Carry these memories wherever you go. Remember, you always have a place here.”
