Reflections on a Memorable Commencement and Our Path Forward

Just a few weeks have passed since we gathered to celebrate the remarkable Sanford School of Public Policy Class of 2025, and the uplifting spirit of that May 9th commencement still resonates deeply. The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the dedication of our students, the unwavering support of their families, and the profound commitment of our faculty and staff.

Our PhD, Masters, and Undergraduate graduates form an exceptional cohort, and it was inspiring to recognize their journey. As we've highlighted in recent Sanford stories, they are not just prepared but are already embarking on diverse paths to tackle pressing policy challenges, from shaping international relations and championing social justice to driving economic development and serving in government at all levels. Their passion for service is truly the hallmark of a Sanford education.

The commencement also provided a wonderful opportunity to honor the pillars of that education: our esteemed faculty. We celebrated Professor Mac McCorkle, recipient of the Richard A. Stubbing Award for Distinguished Teaching and Mentoring, and Professor David Hoffman, who received the Susan Tifft Teaching and Mentoring Award. Their dedication is instrumental in shaping the leaders who graduate from our school.

This year's ceremony felt particularly charged with significance. Our distinguished speaker, Professor Jennifer Hillman, a true friend of Sanford with deep connections to our founder, powerfully articulated that this is a “fortunate time” for our graduates to enter public life. She acknowledged the fractures and complexities of our world but emphasized that “it is in this moment of crisis, of chaos, of questioning… you can make a bigger difference in the world than perhaps any other class of Sanford School graduates in its 50 plus-year history.” Professor Hillman urged our graduates to lead with courage, build community, and always act with kindness, core values we strive to instill here at Sanford.

Image

Her message beautifully complemented a theme I shared as we concluded the ceremony: that we are living in a "Kairos moment." This ancient Greek concept of the "exact right moment" for decisive action perfectly captures the urgency and the profound opportunity that lies before us and our graduates. In a world craving solutions, and as Terry Sanford himself charged us, we must continue to "develop in our students the brain and the heart and the nerve to lead the kind of life that will make a creative difference." Our graduates are not trained to merely "fit into place"; they are empowered to help reshape our world for the better.

At this contentious juncture for public policy globally and domestically, the importance of Sanford's mission has never been clearer. The thoughtful analysis, ethical grounding, and practical skills we impart are essential for navigating ambiguity and forging effective, principled solutions. The entire commencement experience, from Professor Hillman’s insightful address to the inspiring dedication of our Class of 2025, reinforces my own profound conviction in the vital role our school plays in preparing leaders for these very times.

To our new alumni, I say again: You ARE prepared. You ARE qualified. The adaptability, curiosity, and agility you’ve cultivated at Sanford will be invaluable assets.

Commencement is more than a conclusion; it is a launchpad. It offered a vivid perspective on the impact Sanford is already making and the even greater contributions on the horizon. Let us all carry forward the spirit of that inspiring day, the optimism, the determination, and our collective commitment to principled public service.

Warm Regards,

Interim Dean Manoj Mohanan, Sanford School of Public Policy