VIDEO: Peters Delivers Commencement Address at the University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy Graduation Ceremony

ANN ARBOR, MI - U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) delivered the commencement address for the University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy Class of 2026. Peters' address highlighted the importance of the new graduates using the skills and expertise they received at the Ford School to pursue careers in public service and take on the growing list of challenges facing public officials.

"I'm confident that all of you here today will go on to successful careers in public service and we desperately need your skills, your talent, and your knowledge," said Senator Peters. "Because right now we live in a highly polarized and hyper partisan environment. Today, all you have to do is turn on the news, and you'll be hit by list of the challenges facing public officials. And as a result of that we need leaders who are able to find common ground with people who think differently than they do. And, because of the education you have received here, we are absolutely counting on you to lead."

To watch video of Senator Peters' commencement address, click here.

Peters also highlighted the legacy of the Ford School, named after U.S. President and Michigander Gerald R. Ford.

"President Ford was level-headed, measured, unafraid to reach across the aisle and work with those who saw things differently from him. He stood for civil rights and voting rights. He supported working families and farmers. He had an internal moral compass to guide him every day," said Peters. "President Ford embodied the values of leadership, integrity, and bringing people from different backgrounds together. I know these are values that live on today in each and every one of you and every graduate of the Ford School."

Peters concluded his speech by calling on the new graduates of the Ford School to stay actively involved in their communities and pursue careers in public service at all levels of government.

"As new graduates, I know you will also continue to seek out ways to stay actively involved in your community. And remember, all politics are local. Our state and local governments need your knowledge and expertise, just as much as our federal government does," said Peters. "No matter where or how you choose to serve, you all have the skills and talent needed to build coalitions, to effect change, and to make a big impact on the complex issues we face today."

Peters continued, "As public policy experts, I know you will continue to be active citizens in our democratic republic. I encourage you to follow the example set by President Ford and the alumni who have come before you. Continue to use your knowledge and skills to stand up for what is just and always work to find common ground with your fellow citizens. We face big challenges, and they will require big solutions. Our democracy is at its best when we work together."

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