Bronx Community College (BCC) celebrated its 64th Annual Commencement on Friday, May 31, 2024, honoring 1,124 graduates in a ceremony filled with pride and anticipation for the future. The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by the esteemed Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, a leading voice in science communication and the director of New York’s Hayden Planetarium. Dr. Tyson was also bestowed with an honorary degree, a historic first for the College.
The selection of Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson as keynote speaker held special significance for BCC. Sixty years prior, his father served as a professor at BCC, teaching Sociology and Contemporary Civilization. This connection deepened the resonance of Dr. Tyson’s presence and message. Known for his ability to ignite curiosity and passion for science among young people, Dr. Tyson, a Bronx native and graduate of Bronx High School of Science, is a prominent figure in media, frequently sharing his insights on science and the universe.
In his address to the graduating class, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson delivered a powerful message that transcended the typical graduation platitudes. “Yes, this graduation is an achievement, but I hope it is the least achievement in your life,” he stated, urging students to look beyond academic accolades. He emphasized the qualities that truly matter in the long run: “Five years from now, nobody is going to ask you what your GPA was. They’ll ask you ‘Are you a hard worker? Are you a problem solver? Are you moral? Are you committed?’ Those are the kinds of things that actually matter going forward.” His words resonated deeply, shifting the focus from past accomplishments to future potential and character.
Interim BCC President Dr. Milton Santiago’s welcome remarks further underscored the value of the BCC experience. He highlighted the rich diversity of the student body, representing over 120 countries, as a crucial element of their education. Referencing Salutatorian Lia Calderon Castillo, Dr. Santiago noted, “The diversity at BCC expands, changes and opens one’s mindset… This alone my friends is worth its weight in gold.” He connected this diversity to enhanced opportunities for innovation and problem-solving, skills highly valued in today’s global landscape. Dr. Santiago expressed immense pride in having Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson as the keynote speaker, emphasizing the alignment between Dr. Tyson’s mission to inspire and BCC’s commitment to empowering a diverse student body. He affirmed that Dr. Tyson’s work embodies BCC’s core values of quality education, innovation, engaged citizenship, lifelong learning, and economic mobility.
The 2024 Bronx Community College Commencement was not just a ceremony, but a powerful send-off into the future, enriched by the wisdom and inspiration of Doctor Neil Degrasse Tyson. His insightful words served as a reminder that true success is measured not just by degrees, but by the enduring qualities of hard work, problem-solving, and moral commitment.
