Crystal Chinn

Good morning, friends, family members, faculty, staff and 2022 graduates!

I think it would be an understatement to say that we have faced a lot of challenges and adversity during our time here. The phrase “unprecedented times” seems to be a common part of our vocabulary, and I believe I can speak for us all when I say that college hasn’t looked anything like we thought it would.

In the room this morning, we have leaders, innovators and world changers. Pursue what sets your heart on fire and let your passion drive you closer and closer to who you have always dreamed of becoming. Take the skills you have learned here and the memories that you’ve made in order to create a life that is not only successful, but satisfying.

I hope that today you remember that no matter how long you’ve been here, The University of Texas at Dallas is a better place because of you. Whether you spent your days in early morning dance practice, served a term on Student Government, found your home in Greek Life, trained as a student athlete, competed on our chess team, committed your time to community service, or worked full time in order to support your family, your presence has had an impact here.

Let us remember that we are stronger together. No matter where you go in the world, or what you accomplish, I hope that if you are one thing, you are kind. There is so much beauty in being a part of something bigger than ourselves, and it is a blessing to get to join together with like-minded young professionals and create something truly extraordinary.

Amidst all of the good things we are celebrating today, let us take a minute to acknowledge all of the tragedy we have faced over the course of our time here. From the COVID-19 pandemic, to a great deal of civil unrest, to the invasion of Ukraine, we’ve seen some excruciating times. However, it is in times like these that I am reminded of this quote: “Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” Let adversity act as an opportunity to learn fully and love deeply.

Thank you to all of the people who have believed in us and supported us over the years. From late-night research papers, to early morning exams, to weekend passion projects, I know that none of us would have been able to do this on our own. All of our communities look different, and there is something beautiful about that. None of our stories are the same, just as none of us are the same. However, the one thing we have in common is that we are all valued, loved and deserve acceptance just as we are. It is my desire for us all that we can walk in the confidence of who we are with an assurance of the value in being known and loved.

As we leave here today and each go in different directions, it is my prayer for us all that we are able to remain humble, grateful, authentic and intentional in everything that we do. Stay true to who you are, and remember that you are enough. I hope that we go into the world with hearts of gratitude for a university community that has loved us, encouraged us to strive for excellence and taught us to choose joy every day. In wherever you go and whatever you do, leave your corner of the world better than you found it.

Congratulations to the Class of 2022. Thank you!

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Crystal Chinn came to UT Dallas from The Woodlands High School. Chinn is graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor’s in finance. She has been involved in several organizations on campus including the Davidson Management Honors Program, Kappa Alpha Theta, the Professional Program in Finance, the Nova Ambassador Program, and the Cultural Scholars Program. After graduation, she will spend a month in Monterey, Mexico, sharing the Gospel with college students. Upon her return, she will start her full-time job at Bain & Company in Dallas.