Diverse Perspectives from Harvard’s Commencement Orators

During Harvard University's 375th Commencement, three exceptional graduates took the stage to deliver speeches that emphasized the importance of embracing diversity and the ties that bind us. Each speaker drew from their unique experiences, intertwining their personal journeys with broader societal lessons.

‘To Be a Harvardian’ - Kiesse Nanor

Kiesse Nanor, a senior with a passion for classical studies, reflected on her long-standing fascination with ancient texts and their enduring relevance. From an early age, her interest was piqued by Greek myths, which she later explored through Gregory Nagy's influential work. Nanor's decision to study Latin at Exeter came as she sought a language that offered precise grammatical rules and deep implications.

At Harvard, she engaged deeply with the classics, taking courses under Nagy himself and even transitioning her thesis focus from Latin to Ancient Greek poetry. Her approach uncovered complementary relationships in the works of poets Sappho and Alcaeus, challenging conventional interpretations that often simplify their contributions into binary categories.

Alongside her studies, Nanor pursued her passion for music, balancing her role as music director of the a cappella group Din & Tonics with academic commitments. Her speech encapsulated her belief that classical languages are living legacies, resonating with contemporary audiences. “These aren’t just dead languages,” she asserted. “These are things that have real relevance and still resonate with people today.”

‘Losing Our Education’ - Andrew O’Donohue

Andrew O'Donohue, a doctoral candidate in political science, approached his oration with a focus on the fragility of democracy. His formative experiences, particularly an internship during a coup attempt in Turkey, shaped his understanding of democratic processes globally. Witnessing the complications of political dissent firsthand drove his academic inquiries into the nature of democracy and its defense mechanisms.

His research underscores an evolving perspective: rather than viewing American democracy as a model for imitation, O'Donohue challenges this notion by exploring what lessons the U.S. can learn from other nations. His dissertation examines how courts, often seen as defenders of democracy, can also undermine it, drawing from his analyses of judicial systems in Turkey and Israel.

In his speech, O’Donohue stressed the importance of civic engagement, warning against apathy in a divisive climate. He emphasized that universities and democracy are interconnected, urging his peers to prioritize their voices in civic discourse. “Our universities and our democracy depend on one another,” he proclaimed.

‘The Punchline’ - Noah Eckstein

Noah Eckstein, who is set to pursue a Ph.D. in physics, shared insights that blended his passion for science and music. Eckstein recalled his early relationship with music sparked by a Bruce Springsteen album and how it shaped his educational journey. Although initially hesitant about physics, he ultimately found a mentor at Harvard who encouraged his pursuit of complex subjects, even suggesting that he was ready for quantum mechanics earlier than anticipated.

Eckstein successfully balanced his rigorous academic life with an active engagement in music, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary pursuits. His research on quantum simulations not only reflects his scientific acumen but also his commitment to integrating arts and sciences. In his oration, he pondered the importance of understanding over division in an increasingly polarized world, drawing on lessons learned from his diverse family background spanning various religions.

These three speeches during Harvard’s 375th Commencement offered not just reflections on personal growth but also vital commentary on social cohesion in the face of fragmentation. Each speaker showcased how different backgrounds and fields of study contribute to a richer understanding of community and kinship.

As the graduates step into the next phase of their lives, they carry with them the values instilled by their experiences at Harvard—principles of understanding, cooperation, and the recognition that diversity is a strength, not a barrier.