Investigations Graduate Student Reflects on Identity, Resilience, and the Power of Representation

This spring, we come together to celebrate more than a graduation—we celebrate the stories that brought us here, the obstacles we overcame, and the triumphs we now share. My name is Omar Chung, and I am honored to stand with you as a Black, Deaf, gay man, whose first language is American Sign Language. I am also the second of my family’s first-generation children to graduate with a master’s degree.

This moment is deeply personal, not just for me but for my family and everyone who supported me along the way. To my family, friends, and mentors—thank you for lifting me when I felt unseen, for standing by me in moments of doubt, and for believing in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. This accomplishment is as much yours as it is mine.

When I look back at my journey, it wasn’t a straight line. Growing up at the intersection of being Black, Deaf, and gay often felt like navigating a world that didn’t quite know how to include me. But instead of letting those challenges define me, I turned them into opportunities.

For every door that was closed, I learned to build a window. Every time I faced rejection; it became fuel to keep moving forward. And while those moments tested me, they also strengthened me. The struggles I faced taught me that resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving and redefining what’s possible.

Each of us has faced obstacles. Some were visible, others were silent and deeply personal. But look at where we are today. If there’s one thing my journey has shown me, it’s that the power to rise exists in all of us. As proud as I am of what I’ve achieved, I know I didn’t do it alone. My family, who sacrificed so much to ensure I had opportunities they never did, taught me the value of persistence. My friends, who stood by me through late nights and self-doubt, reminded me of the strength in community.

The University of New Haven gave me the tools to not only learn but to lead. Despite being an online student, I felt embraced, supported, and seen as my authentic self. It’s true what they say—it takes a village, and I am forever grateful for mine.

Take a moment to think about your village. Who helped you get here? Who stayed up late with you, encouraged you, or simply believed in you? This day is not just about us as individuals—it’s about the collective effort that made our success possible.

If I’ve learned anything, it’s that life is not a sprint. It’s a marathon filled with detours, hurdles, and unexpected turns. There were times when the finish line seemed so far away, and there were moments when exhaustion almost took over.

I kept going step by step, mile by mile. Success, I’ve realized, isn’t about how fast you run. It’s about showing up, staying committed, and finding strength even when the road ahead seems daunting. To my fellow graduates: Wherever you go from here, remember this—you’ve already proven that you can endure, adapt, and succeed. Keep running your race, no matter how long it takes to reach your next finish line.

My goal in sharing my story was simple: to show that representation matters. As a Black, Deaf, gay man, I understand how rare it is to see someone like me in spaces such as this.

Today, I stand as proof that our differences do not limit us—they define us, strengthen us, and make us uniquely capable of achieving greatness. My hope is that my story reminds you to embrace your own identity, whatever that may look like, and to boldly chase the dreams that feel just out of reach.

During my time at this university, I’ve grown not just as a student but as a leader. Serving on the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) Alumni Association Board, volunteering with the District of Columbia Association of the Deaf (DCAD), and leading as vice president of the Department of Homeland Security Employee Association taught me the value of advocacy, inclusion, and giving back.

This university empowered me to dream big, to lead with authenticity, and to believe that no barrier is insurmountable. It gave me the tools to not only succeed but to make an impact—and I hope to leave that legacy with you today.

Class of 2025: We did it. Let's celebrate the miles we’ve run, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the incredible strength we’ve discovered within ourselves. But remember, this is not the finish line. It’s the starting point for something even greater.

To our families, friends, and faculty: Thank you for being our cheerleaders, our foundation, and our guiding lights. Your love and support have carried us farther than you’ll ever know.

As we step forward into the next chapter of our lives, let’s carry with us the lessons of resilience, community, and determination. Let’s continue running toward greatness, together.

Congratulations, Class of 2025. Let’s make history.

Omar Chung ’25 M.S., who will receive his master’s degree in investigations, was a finalist to serve as a student speaker at Commencement. The content above is based on the speech he delivered as part of the competitive process to select the student Commencement speakers.