(ANGOLA) - Former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels delivered the commencement address as Trine University honored about 2,700 graduates during ceremonies May 2.
Graduates were recognized in two ceremonies at the Keith E. Busse Steel Dynamics Inc. Athletic and Recreation Center. Students from the Angola campus, Brooks College of Health Professions and TrineOnline were honored in the morning, with graduates from Trine's education centers in Detroit, Phoenix and Reston, Virginia recognized in the afternoon.
Daniels told the Class of 2026 they are entering a world he described as "the most promising and most uncertain and treacherous," pointing to challenges including artificial intelligence, global competition and federal deficits.
He encouraged graduates to focus on adding value, take initiative, learn from mistakes and remain open to opportunity beyond what is familiar.
Following his address, Daniels received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from the university.
Trine also awarded a posthumous degree to Ben Kurtzweg, who died in 2024. His sister accepted the degree on his behalf.
During the ceremony, Stashu Patterson, the Robert B. Stewart Award winner, addressed the class, emphasizing the importance of relationships and community.
University President Earl D. Brooks II encouraged graduates to build on their experiences and move forward with confidence as they begin the next stage of their lives.