Closing remarks to Convocation

June 2015

The Hon. Michael Wilson, P.C., C.C., B.Com., LL.D.
Chancellor of the University of Toronto

Ladies and gentlemen, as Chancellor I would like to conclude today’s proceedings with a few words to our graduates. As you proceed to the next chapter of your lives, I offer the following ingredients for success – things I have observed in people I’ve known and worked with over the years.

First, integrity: If you carry out your responsibilities consistently, to the best of your ability, people will trust you as a colleague, and turn to you for leadership.

Next, courage: In the face of adversity, and even tragedy, try to remember the reasons for optimism – and never be afraid to ask for help. Look after yourself – especially your health, both physical and mental.

Follow your instincts and curiosity wherever they lead, and broaden your knowledge by reading as much as you can. Embrace opportunities to collaborate. It’s the key to our success as a society, and it helps us grow as individuals.

Be bold and take risks, and don’t let the fear of failure stop you. Failure is a part of life. It’s another way to learn. Change is a part of life, too. At times it’s frightening, but we should see it as a chance to explore, and to test our limits.

Above all, enjoy what you do. Take pleasure and satisfaction in what you achieve. Along with the personal characteristics I’ve mentioned above, this is the key to a happy life.

Whatever your next steps, I invite you to see your studies here as part of a lifetime of learning. And I encourage you to use that learning to leave every situation better than it was when you arrived.

Graduates – and now, my fellow alumni of the University of Toronto: Congratulations! You have worked hard. You deserve to be proud of this achievement, and to take this opportunity to celebrate.

Good luck, and good health to all of you.