North Columbus News

Distinguished University Professor Umit Ozkan addressed graduates at The Ohio State University’s summer commencement, emphasizing the importance of resilience and lifelong learning. Speaking at the Jerome Schottenstein Center, Ozkan encouraged graduates to embrace challenges and view setbacks as part of their journey.

“Be bold, be brave. Don’t be afraid of challenges,” Ozkan said. “Don’t settle for what seems easy and comfortable. Take the path that seems more difficult. Often you will find that it makes all the difference in the world.”

Ozkan reflected on her career in engineering, describing how her early interest in science began during her childhood in Turkey. She joined Ohio State in 1985 and noted that her time at the university allowed her to pursue both teaching and research.

“I found that I could fulfill my two passions here: teaching and pursuing new knowledge,” she said. “As a teacher, I taught thousands of undergraduate and graduate students. The most gratifying part of this journey has been seeing my students grow to their full potential and become successful professionals in their own right.”

She also urged graduates to treat others with kindness and curiosity about the world around them.

“Never stop learning,” she said. “Graduation is just the beginning for lifelong learning – that is why it is called commencement!”

Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. spoke about how education can lead to service in various forms.

“It may take the form of public service or philanthropy or community leadership or military service. It may mean raising a family or doing everyday things that make our community a better place,” Carter said. “The point is, you’re all called to be a force for good in the world. With your Ohio State degree, I know you will answer that call.”

John W. Zeiger, chair of Ohio State’s Board of Trustees, presented Distinguished Service Awards to Melissa Conrath, an alumna and retired director of Ohio State’s Principal Licensure Program in the College of Education and Human Ecology, as well as Charles Wise, founding director and professor emeritus of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs.

A total of 1,769 degrees and certificates were awarded at the ceremony, including 269 doctorates, 641 master’s degrees, eight professional degrees, and 851 undergraduate and associate degrees or certificates.