Former astronaut and NASA administrator Charles Bolden tells Ohio State graduates to build bridges

Former astronaut and NASA administrator Charles Bolden tells Ohio State graduates to build bridges

12,357 degrees and certificates awarded at spring commencement

A little rain didn't stop the 2025 spring commencement at The Ohio State University. As students and loved ones alike pulled out umbrellas and ponchos, the commencement speaker, Charles F. Bolden Jr., Major General, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.) and NASA administrator from 2009-2017, delivered his remarks.

"This is daunting," he said, staring out at the crowd in Ohio Stadium.

And the world students are graduating into can be daunting, he said. Still, he encouraged the graduates to accept and give help no matter the circumstances.

"You are the ones who will build and strengthen bridges of understanding and cooperation here in America and around the world. It's not always an easy thing to do, but it's worth the effort," he said. "You never know where your friends and allies are going to come from. But you must allow yourself to be surprised and receptive to others not like you."

He also reminded students to remember what they learned at Ohio State.

"Serving a purpose greater than yourself is at the core of the Buckeye philosophy," he said. "You can't go wrong with it."

A friend of Bolden's, Ohio State President Walter "Ted" Carter Jr. told graduates that it can be easy to look at someone like the former astronaut and think they won't measure up. He suggested that the students all look closer.

"The people on this stage have something in common," he said. "Something that is an example to all of us. Something the world needs more of. They have all answered a call to serve the greater good."

Students can answer that call however they see fit, he said, whether that's public service, military service or philanthropy. Ohio State has prepared them for success.

"With the Ohio State degree you are earning today, I know you will answer that call and make the world a better place. And when you set out to create good, there's a multiplier effect. Each act of service, each positive interaction with another person, has an impact far beyond what you might think is possible."

During the ceremony, Atul Gawande, celebrated physician, public health expert and author, received an honorary Doctor of Science. In addition, Distinguished Service Awards were given to William B. Farrar and Elizabeth B. Germain and Richard B. Germain in recognition of their support of the university.

Ninety-one countries were represented in the graduating class, including Costa Rica, India, Kenya and Sweden.

A total of 12,357 degrees and certificates were awarded, of which 294 were doctorates, 1,770 master's and 975 professional degrees. The remaining 9,318 were bachelor's and associate degrees and certificates.

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