"Wait, what? Me?"

When my alma mater, St. Mary's University , asked me to deliver the spring 2024 commencement address, I was genuinely stunned. I couldn’t believe the university's leadership had chosen me for such an honor.

Why me? I soon learned (after I was able to coherently respond to the other end of the line of the phone call) that my proximity to the age of the majority of graduates was a plus. This would be a chance to connect and serve as a "relatable" speaker based on a similar life experience.

The intimidating task of imparting "wisdom" to a sea of graduates, faculty, and my community felt overwhelming. What could I possibly say to make a meaningful impact—while also not completely boring the audience?

All the while, the University was honoring Rwandan human rights leader and Presidential Medal of Freedom awardee Paul Rusesabagina with an honorary doctorate of humane letters. To share the stage with such an icon didn't necessarily help the nerves. Paul and his family were so gracious. We shared special moments with them, including his son, Tresor, who received a B.A. in Communication Studies.

Preparation began with gathering insights and brainstorming ideas with a close-knit team of friends and mentors. These included my longtime and childhood best friend, now a seasoned speechwriter himself, artists from the San Antonio theatre community, and friends from academia.

Then, of course, there were the other friends who (maybe over happy hour) would visit with me and kick around ideas. These conversations led to long notes on my phone, which became a growing document by the day.

But after writing two different openings, inspiration struck one hot Sunday afternoon when my sister shared a video with our family group chat of my nearly four-year-old (perfect) niece riding her bike with training wheels. Watching her pedal with determination … and a hint of anxiety … I saw a metaphor for the graduates' journey. Like my niece, these graduates were on the brink of independence, filled with a mix of excitement and uncertainty about the road ahead.

This imagery formed the backbone of my speech. I encouraged the graduates to take a moment to breathe and smile, acknowledging their accomplishments and the support systems that brought them to this pivotal point. I urged them to look around at their classmates, families, and friends, and to celebrate the community that had nurtured them.

It was incredibly special to look into the stands and see my unwavering support system, led by my parents, Leon and Ginger Matula, reminding me that life is precious and moments like these are rare treasures to be cherished.

A quote from George Bernard Shaw about “creating yourself” vs “finding yourself” helped me find a central theme. I emphasized the importance of curating one’s life, making deliberate choices, and recognizing that the journey is more of a marathon than a sprint—just like Fiesta in San Antonio!

Now recall, these students were the “COVID freshmen.” So their resilience had already been tested to the max and their road included much adaptation along the way. Optimism, I stressed, is a key differentiator. In a world often overshadowed by negativity, maintaining a positive outlook can set one apart and fuel the pursuit of dreams. I shared my belief in the power of meaningful relationships and that the charism of a Marianist institution, such as St. Mary’s, emphasizes community and the common good. These values, I assured them, would guide them through life's uncertainties.

This was an extra special opportunity as this would be President Thomas Mengler's (and wife Mona's) final graduation at the helm of the University. As an undergraduate, I had the chance to serve as a President's Ambassador, a program that supported the University through stewardship and hospitality. Their friendship has been so special to me since my time as an undergraduate.

My journey to the podium was a testament to saying "yes" to opportunities, even when they seemed daunting. It was a reminder that small leaps of faith could lead to unimaginable prospects. Ten years ago, I never would have dreamed of standing before the graduates as their commencement speaker. I’d like to say I saw the graduates' reactions and responses as I spoke. But we all know that the lights shining bright on the stage and the twirling of my stomach made it hard to truly know what they were thinking. What I do know, is that their “deliberate pedaling,” supported by the values instilled in them, has served as the guide for them to embark on this next step.

As the graduation proceeded, the training wheels came off. But, the graduates' handlebars—their values and community—have and will remain intact.

I’m not sure you ever can wholly resonate with a commencement address, a lesson from a pastor on Sunday morning, or a speech delivered by a politician.

Nonetheless, what this beautiful opportunity gave me however, was a chance to reflect on where I am in this life, how I got here, and how this place in time could give someone else the courage and strength to move forward.

What a gift.

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St. Mary's University has been such a formative part of my journey and remains special to me. Currently, I have the pleasure of serving as the Advisory Council Chair for the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Science and on a Board of Trustees Standing Committee. I encourage my fellow alumni to stay involved and give back in meaningful ways to our University and the community at large.