Silvia Bezzi, originally from Bologna, is the Valedictorian of the Class of 2016 which just graduated from John Cabot. She graduated Summa con Laude in Communications. As Valedictorian, she gave the speech during the graduation ceremony. Here is an excerpt from her speech:
“I would tell you to do all the other things, the ambitious things -- travel, get rich, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes... But, as you do, steer your life in the direction of kindness. I would tell you that you can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to give back to you. I would tell you that, while I understand feeling young, invincible, and bulletproof, you should never underestimate the power of other people’s love, support, and prayer.
I’d tell you that we’re no superhumans, but that harnessing willpower to kindness can, and does, do miracles. Whatever path you choose, however many roads you travel, I also hope you choose to break the rules a little bit. Make some trouble out there where it’s needed. ‘Cause the world is not doing too well. The old rules are crumbling, and nobody knows what the new rules will be... so make up your own. Don’t buy society’s definition of success, because it’s not working for anyone. It’s not working for women, it’s not working for women, it’s not working for men or for polar bears.”