Commencement speakers highlight purpose, collaboration

The University of Wisconsin-Madison class of 2026 were welcomed at Camp Randall Saturday by award-winning author James Patterson, outgoing Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin, Board of Regents President Amy Bogost and student speakers about the importance of working together and purpose as they prepared to turn their tassels.  

Keynote speaker James Patterson highlighted the importance of fostering collaboration through communication. Patterson noted famous duos and groups in which collaboration brought forth masterpieces, like the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. 

“Your time here is shorter than you think,” Patterson said. “So, what can you do most beautifully?” 

Patterson also encouraged students to “talk things out” politically, saying he believes the U.S. needs to better address hot topic issues such as abortion and the equal right to vote. His comments were met with cheers from the crowd. 

“We need to talk in a civil respectful manner about pro-life and pro-choice,” Patterson said. “We need to talk about people’s right to vote — everybody's. We need to talk about the constitutional, ethical and moral powers of the three branches of government.” 

During her speech, Chancellor Mnookin emphasized the size and quality of “one of the largest UW-Madison classes ever” — nearly 8900 degree-seeking graduates. She also spoke about purpose and courage.

“Purpose is not a perfect plan It’s a compass,” Mnookin said. “It helps you decide what deserves your time, what deserves your courage and what you may need to walk away from.” 

Saturday’s commencement was Mnookin's last as she’s set to begin her new position as Columbia University's president July 1. She talked about her “life-changing” experience at UW-Madison over the past four years. 

“One [experience] full of joy and learning, and one that has tested me at times, as it surely tested you as well,” Mnookin said. “Together, we’re stepping into new chapters, excited for what is ahead, but also sad and aware that change can be a little scary.” 

The Badger women’s hockey team was celebrated multiple times throughout the ceremony, with nine players graduating. The team hoisted the trophy to cheer during Mnookin and student speaker Ryan Schwartz’s speeches. 

Schwartz talked about what really  makes someone a Badger in the UW-Madison community. 

“But it is not the accomplishments that make the Badger,” Schwartz said. “It’s the belonging, the controlled chaos, the unison, the quiet understanding that no matter how different we are, we will still choose each other every single time.” 

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