President Frederiksen Urges Newest Chargers: 'Do More Than Dream Big'

After being introduced as an engaging and passionate leader, who is deeply invested in student success now and in the future, President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D., approached the podium at Convocation for the University's newest students and began speaking in muffled tones.

"Today, we gather to celebrate a remarkable milestone in your lives – your graduation," he said sheepishly, looking flustered. "I am so sorry. I asked ChatGPT to write this speech for me, and I am not sure it's going to work out."

Stepping away from the podium, he grabbed a hand-held mic from off stage and declared powerfully, "May I have your attention please? Will the real President Frederiksen please stand up?!"

His opening skit led into an engaging and thought-provoking address in which he quoted such individuals as Taylor Swift, Dr. Dre, and Christina Aguilera, as well as American philosopher John Dewey, Greek philosopher Heraclitus, and German idealist G.W.F. Hegel.

"Students are still talking about it," said Greg Overend, executive director of student engagement, leadership and orientation.

President Frederiksen said he understood if some members of the Class of 2028 might have felt a little overwhelmed and nervous, conceding, "So do I.

"But this is the gateway to the rest of your life," he said. "And I have to ask, in the words of Taylor Swift, are you ready for it?!

"Make no mistake, this is about a return on investment for the rest of your life," Dr. Frederiksen continued. "Attend every session, make friends, build networks, and four years from now you will celebrate on a stage not far from here!

"Don't ever give up on the vision of a better, brighter and more productive tomorrow." President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D.

"Listen to Beyonce," he added. "'If you don't seek it, you won't see it. If you don't think it, you won't be it."

Dr. Frederiksen conceded that not every day is going to go according to plan. "So, trust Taylor. 'Shake it off,' and get back to work. German idealist G.W.F Hegel tells us that 'nothing great has ever been accomplished without passion.' Find yours, and then full steam ahead."

Explaining that, on average, one third of our lifetime is spent sleeping – and another third working, Dr. Frederiksen urged, "Do more than dream big. Make the most of life. And since you aren't awake for roughly 25 years, you better make the most of the remaining 50.

"The world has plenty of big challenges to tackle, and we depend on you to step up," he continued. "You are the next generation of healthcare workers, detectives, engineers, bankers, lawyers, designers, and entrepreneurs – from every corner of the world to every corner of the world. Remember humanity overrides globality any day."

Dr. Frederiksen implored the newest students to never lose sight of why they chose to become Chargers.

"Hold on to your purpose – and always do the right thing – even when no-one is watching.

"Each of your journeys are different, but let's recall Immanuel Kant's observation that, 'Out of the crooked timber of humanity, no straight thing was ever made,' or phrased in the words of Christina Aguilera: 'you are beautiful.'"

Dr. Frederiksen told the Class of 2028, "This is your time, your moment. And like all good moments this one deserves a selfie."

After taking a selfie from stage, he said, "to quote Dr. Dre, who isn't locked in my basement – 'let's get back to business.' You have an incredible opportunity here – seize it – take advantage of everything the University has to offer!"

Joking that since he started with AI, he would end with AI.

"Heraclitus once said: 'you never step into the same river twice.' That proverbial river is arguably moving faster than ever so let's not get swept up in the current. Use your minds, embrace innovation (including AI), push boundaries, and explore what makes us better. But don't ever forget our humanity. And don't ever give up on the vision of a better, brighter and more productive tomorrow."

In offering greetings on behalf of the faculty, Nancy Savage, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president of academic affairs, told the newest Chargers that the professors and staff are eager to support them as they embark on their journey as Chargers.

"We are committed to helping you discover your academic passions, prepare for your future career, and achieve your goals so that you are ready for what comes after Commencement," she said. "Yes, I know it's a bit early to be talking about graduation when you haven't even read your first syllabus yet, but trust me, that day will come sooner than you think. Every day between now and then is a chance to build your future.

Darby Brown '25, president of the Undergraduate Student Government Association, spoke about the University's Charger Compact, saying the community values outlined in it should mean something to all Chargers.

"Ask anyone of the students, staff, or faculty who welcomed you into the Beckerman Center," she said. "We all believe in the Charger Compact not just for ourselves, but for those around us."

Ophelie Rowe-Allen, Ed.D., vice president of student affairs and dean of students, shouted "ACTIVATE!" as the students responded "POWER ON!" Then she and several staff members presented a spoken word titled, "A College Student You Are."

"You have invested in yourself, and we are going to do the same," she said.