Villanova’s 182nd Graduation Ceremony: Inspiring Speeches from Navy Admiral and NBA Star

At Villanova University’s 182nd Commencement, two notable speakers took the stage: Admiral Samuel Paparo and NBA player Jeremiah Robinson-Earl. Both delivered inspiring messages to the Class of 2025.

Admiral Paparo, a proud alum from the Class of 1987, not only gave the keynote speech but also received an honorary Doctor of Military Science degree. He’s spent almost 40 years in the Navy and has impressive credentials, including over 6,000 flight hours as a naval aviator. He emphasized the university’s values—“Veritas, Unitas, Caritas”—and challenged graduates to think about how they can contribute to their communities and the nation. He pointed out that America is more than a corporation; it thrives on connections and shared responsibilities.

On the other hand, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl comes from a different path. He started at Villanova but left to pursue his NBA dreams, eventually returning to finish his degree online. During his speech, he reflected on the challenges of navigating college life during the COVID-19 pandemic and praised how Villanova supported him even from a distance. His story is a testament to the resilience that many students have shown recently.

Both speakers highlighted the importance of leadership, a theme that resonates strongly in today’s world. *“Leadership is shaped by our relationships,”* said Admiral Paparo, reminding graduates that true leadership comes from learning and growing together. This idea is especially relevant as many young people today are stepping into roles that require both empathy and initiative.

Villanova’s president, Peter M. Donohue, also addressed the class, encouraging students to carry the university’s spirit into their futures. His remarks echoed sentiments shared by graduates nationwide, as they transition into a world that needs adaptable and compassionate leaders.

As of now, recent statistics show that individuals with degrees are seeing higher employment rates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, workers with a bachelor’s degree had an unemployment rate of just 2.3%, compared to 5.3% for those with only a high school diploma. This reinforces the value of higher education in today’s job market.

Robinson-Earl’s address was significant in another way—he’s the first student from the College of Professional Studies to deliver the speech at commencement. This milestone highlights the evolving nature of education and how it accommodates different pathways to learning.

In total, over 2,700 students graduated from Villanova, including undergraduates, graduates, and law students. This ceremony signified not just a personal achievement but also a collective step forward for students ready to make an impact.

For more insights on the importance of education and graduation trends, check out the [Bureau of Labor Statistics](https://www.bls.gov/) page for updated information and statistics.

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