Good afternoon, Class of 2025, faculty, family, and friends.

Today, we celebrate not just an achievement but a transition, a moment where we take everything we’ve learned at Puget Sound and step into the world beyond. Over the years, we’ve challenged ourselves, expanded our perspectives, and grown into the people we are today. As we look to new opportunities and uncertainties, I want to remind each of you: we are ready.

Good afternoon. My name is Avi Matan Whinkin. I’m glad to be here today, and I’m glad that you’re here, as well.

University of Puget Sound mourns the passing of W. Houston Dougharty ’83, a long-time staff member and devoted alumnus, who died late last week in his hometown of Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was 63 years old.

Celebration of Life Information: 

Ryan Payton’s career path is a lot like the acclaimed video games he’s spent the last 20 years developing. It’s been a long and winding journey with plenty of obstacles, but Payton has never been one to play on easy mode. Through it all, he’s demonstrated grit, adaptability, and perseverance to get where he wants to go.

Long before he stood onstage at The Game Awards, Payton found his voice as a storyteller in a high school Honors English class. 

For Reggie Westgate ’27, an email from Environmental Studies & Sciences Professor Kena Fox-Dobbs changed everything. It was an invitation to apply for the university's Georneys (pronounced "journeys") trip to the Galápagos Islands, an opportunity he immediately jumped on.

The University of Puget Sound will host "Insights into the Changing World of Artificial Intelligence," a business summit and panel discussion, on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, 99 Union St., Seattle.

This year's University of Puget Sound Business Insights event will explore the impact of artificial intelligence on business, providing insights into navigating the evolving AI environment. Topics will include disruptive technologies, emerging trends, and ethical considerations.

The University of Puget Sound's commitment to global engagement extends far beyond its campus, reaching across continents and cultures. This year, two Puget Sound alumnae, Kyra Lee ’24 and Khysa Gustafson ’24, are making their mark as Fulbright scholars, pursuing research in Australia and teaching in Germany. Their experiences highlight the university's dedication to preparing students for impactful careers at home and abroad.