Alumni speakers inspire graduates at spring 2025 convocations

Jarryd Wallace, (AB Communications Studies '19) keynote speaker as well as four-time Paralympian and two-time bronze medalist, shared lessons he learned from the tests he’s faced during UGA’s undergraduate Commencement ceremony held May 9.

“That’s what trials do — they forge something in us that comfort never could. They teach us to keep going when nothing makes sense. To believe when hope feels distant. To see ourselves not by what we’ve lost, but by who we’re becoming,” Wallace said.

More the 2,100 undergraduate and graduate students were conferred Franklin College degrees at Friday's events.

And around the Franklin College, alumni speakers returned to campus to address department convocations May 8 and May 9

Distinguished alumnus and entrepreneur Rah Shingadia (B.S. Psychology, 2005) delivered a rousing address at the University of Georgia’s Psychology 2025 spring Commencement. As the founder of Southeast Aquariums, a Bulldog 100 business crafting stunning aquatic environments, and co-founder of Alchemy, which designed sets for the Oscar-nominated Black Panther, Shingadia shared insights from his remarkable journey, urging graduates to pursue their passions, embrace change, and take calculated risks. 

Shingadia emphasized the power of passion in driving success. “Make sure you are working towards a goal you can be passionate about because not only will it be a more enjoyable experience, but you’ll do it indefinitely better,” he said. Reflecting on his transition from a psychology major in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences to becoming the “fish guy,” he highlighted how passion fueled his innovative career in aquarium design and film production. 

He also spoke candidly about the evolution of personal relationships. “Those in your circle will change based on your needs and the direction you are headed in life,” he said. “You’ll find yourself aligning with those going down the same path, or others who have already been down it.” This adaptability, he suggested, is key to personal and professional growth. 

Central to his message was the importance of taking risks. “If you don’t swing for the fences, you can’t hit those home runs—or end up giving a convocation speech at your alma mater,” he quipped. Shingadia encouraged calculated risk-taking, acknowledging that failure is part of the process. “You can’t spell millions without a couple of L’s,” he said, urging graduates to learn from setbacks and stay focused. “Don’t let failures discourage and distract you from your goals.” 

Shingadia concluded by advocating for celebrating all victories, no matter the size. He shared how his goals evolved, requiring him to pause and reflect on his progress. “Sometimes you have to look back and celebrate how far you’ve come instead of how far you have to go,” he advised, encouraging graduates to reinforce positive behaviors and stay motivated. 

Through his blend of humor, wisdom, and practical advice, Shingadia inspired UGA’s newest psychology graduates to approach their futures with passion, resilience, and a willingness to embrace the unknown, leaving them ready to make their mark on the world. 

Joining Wallace and Shingadia in returning to campus to celebrate and inspire the class of 2025 were a distinguished list alumni, including:

• Physics/Astronomy - M. Elliott Williams (BS ’20 Astrophysics)
• Germanic & Slavic Studies - Scott Henderson Sikes (AB ’82 Political Science)
• Romance Languages - Sara Tricarico (AB ’15 Romance Language) and Katherine Daley-Bailey (AB ’00 Religion)
• Geography - Denise Sunta (AB ’21 Anthropology)
• Lamar Dodd School of Art – Rachel Debuque (MFA ’13 Art)
• Genetics – Cindy Starke (BS ’91 Genetics)
• Biochemistry & Molecular Bio - Rob Bazemore (BS ’91 Biochemistry)
• Communication Studies – James Dunn (AB ’98 Speech Comm)
• Theater/Film - Dylan Whitfield (AB ’17 Theater)

Thank you to these outstanding members of the Franklin family. Your generous engagement with our students and families helped create enduring impressions of celebration and accomplishment cherished by all. 

Hope to see you back on campus again soon!

Image: Students take photos during the undergraduate Commencement ceremony in Sanford Stadium, May 9, 2025. (Andrew Davis Tucker/UGA)