Jane Seymour's Inspiring Message to Graduates
High Point University held its graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2025, celebrating the achievements of undergraduate students. In a remarkable gathering at the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center, graduates and their families filled the venue with excitement and pride.
HPU President Nido Qubein welcomed the graduates, expressing admiration for their hard work and dedication. The impressive number of students graduating underscores High Point University’s growth as an academic institution. This year, the university is on target to award nearly 1,700 degrees, a testament to its commitment to education.
Among the honored guests at the event was Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jane Seymour, who delivered a thought-provoking commencement address. Qubein presented her with an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts, acknowledging her contributions to the arts. Seymour humorously remarked that her honorary degree was quite special because she hadn’t attended college but felt a close connection to the achievement through this honor.
A Journey of Resilience and Adaptability
Seymour took a moment to share her journey, highlighting her struggles with flat feet and a speech impediment in her childhood. To overcome these challenges, she turned to ballet and speech therapy, which opened the doors for her eventual success as a ballerina and actress, appearing in over 100 films and television shows. She received a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in recognition of her incredible career.
Her message for graduates was clear: embrace life’s unpredictability. She advised the graduates to navigate their paths bravely and openly, reminding them that life’s shifts can lead to unexpected opportunities. "Your job is not to control the path. Walk it boldly and openly," she urged. "Do not fear the unknown. Often, what seems like a setback can lead you to incredible places in life. Life is teaching you through each experience. Stay resilient and keep your heart open to change.”
Seymour encouraged graduates to view every situation, positive or negative, as a lesson in resilience. She emphasized the power of reflection, talking about how seemingly unfavorable experiences can transform into blessings over time. “The journey may lead you to places you never imagined,” she said.
Embracing Opportunities for Growth
Beyond her illustrious acting career, Seymour is the founder of the Open Hearts Foundation, which is inspired by her own family history and her mother’s experiences during World War II. Her passion for uplifting others extends to her work as an author and designer, showcasing her multifaceted talents.
During her address, she encouraged graduates to prioritize authenticity over societal approval. “Live for your passions and make a difference using your unique gifts,” she advised. Seymour’s message resonated as she encouraged new graduates to approach life with curiosity and generosity, and to not fear when things don’t go as planned, as each turn can lead to greater growth.
With great enthusiasm, Qubein and Seymour, both recipients of the Horatio Alger Award for their resilience and leadership, inspired graduates to be bold and to not shy away from life’s challenges. With the values imbued by their education, each graduate is equipped for their upcoming journey.
Recognition for New Leaders
Another honorary doctorate was conferred during the ceremony, to Dr. John C. Maxwell, a noted leadership expert and author. His influence in shaping leaders around the globe has been profound, training millions—an embodiment of knowledge and experience.
Emma Higgins, the Senior Class President and an electrical engineering major, shared her heartfelt reflections on the community at HPU. She described how her initial confusion transformed into a sense of belonging, reminding everyone that the essence of home is found in the relationships fostered within the university.
Celebrating Tradition and Commitment
The ceremonies represented a significant milestone for HPU, marking a year full of achievements, including not only the graduation but also a centennial celebration and record-high student enrollment. As the university welcomes its first cohorts into new graduate programs, there’s a strong sense of optimism and potential within its community.
In a traditional send-off, President Qubein inspired graduates by expressing confidence in their future endeavors, noting that this graduation is not an end but rather a start to their educational journey. His words reinforced the university's mission to prepare students for meaningful lives.
A memorable moment occurred as a bald eagle soared above the graduates, symbolizing freedom and the pursuit of opportunities—a beautiful reminder of the ideals of hope and independence.
Each graduate was gifted a blanket to give to someone special who has supported their educational journey, symbolizing gratitude and connection. The attendance of alumni from the Class of 1975, celebrating their own anniversary, further emphasized the long-lasting bonds formed at HPU.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main message of Jane Seymour's address?
Jane Seymour encouraged graduates to embrace change and stay resilient, highlighting how unexpected challenges can lead to personal growth.
Who received honorary doctorates at the ceremony?
Jane Seymour received an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts, and Dr. John C. Maxwell was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.
What are some achievements of High Point University in 2025?
HPU is celebrating its centennial anniversary, awarding nearly 1,700 degrees, and achieving the highest enrollment in its history.
What traditions are associated with HPU's commencement?
Traditions include heartfelt send-offs by the president, symbolic gestures like the eagle soaring above graduates, and the presentation of blankets to loved ones.
How did Emma Higgins reflect on her experience at HPU?
Emma Higgins shared how her time at HPU has transformed her understanding of home, emphasizing the supportive community at the university.
