Wake Forest University held its commencement ceremony on May 18, where Misty Copeland, the first Black female principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, addressed nearly 10,000 attendees and challenged graduates to measure success by the spaces they create for others. Copeland told the Class of 2026 that success is not just about personal achievement but also about making opportunities available to those around them.
The message was significant as it encouraged students to think beyond individual accomplishment and focus on building inclusive communities. Copeland said, “Sometimes we tell success stories as if people simply worked hard enough and found their way. But the truth is, somebody created access for you. Somebody made space for you. Pro humanitate to me means using your gifts not only to advance yourself but to widen the space for others.”
She warned against a culture focused solely on competition and perfection, saying, “ambition without humanity can become very isolating.” She urged graduates to protect their core humanity and lead with authenticity: “Becoming yourself is not a branding exercise. It is a lifelong process of paying attention…to what kind of a human being you want to be when nobody is watching. The world does not need more people performing perfection. It needs more people willing to lead truthfully.”
During the ceremony on Hearn Plaza, Professor Nina Lucas hooded Copeland as she received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree. Lucas said, “When I was informed that I would be the person hooding her, I was moved to tears. I am a big fan of Misty Copeland’s accomplishments and success, but it is her quiet strength and grace that leave a lasting impression on anyone in her presence.”
Rev. Eugene Cho delivered the baccalaureate speech on May 17 urging students “not grow weary in doing good,” while President Susan R. Wente reflected on how relationships formed at Wake Forest are foundational: “The most enduring part will be the relationships you have formed here…These connections become foundational for the rest of your life.…So take care of these relationships.” Both Wente and Cho were awarded honorary degrees during commencement.
The event highlighted themes of compassion, community-building, and leadership rooted in humanity—values speakers said would guide graduates into their futures.
