Gary Hirsch told the Class of 2026 to become improvisers, since uncertainty in life is inevitable. He offered some sage advice as a career improviser on navigating uncertainty with intention and grace. An artist, author and creative leader, Hirsch presented an interactive keynote address at Saturday’s 150th Commencement at Wilmington College titled “Radical Collaboration with the World Around You.”
His first kernel of advice is to let go of rigid agendas and discover the wonders and opportunities awaiting in the shadows of uncertainty. “When the plan shifts, can you let go of assumptions, expectations and wishing that things were different?” he said.
Second, notice more. He symbolically mentioned the person who only spoke about pies, but upon arriving at the bakery, there was only cake. “If you are caught in your own story, you won’t notice all of the other ‘offers’ that arise. You will only look for pie and miss out on the wonderful cake all around you,” he added.
Finally, Hirsch urged the graduates to accept offers. “On stage and in life, everything can be seen as an offer, for example, tripping on a shoelace. You can wish it hadn’t happened, but it did, so I must take and use it. Offers are everywhere, improvisers don't have the time to evaluate or judge them, they can only take and use them.”
He offered a quote from Keith Johnstone, a pioneer of modern improvisational theatre. “There are people who prefer to say yes, and there are people who prefer to say no. Those who say yes are rewarded by the adventures they have. Those who say no are rewarded by the safety they attain.”
Hirsch concluded, “May you meet the unexpected as a yes-sayer and find your own adventure along the way!”
PICTURED: President Corey Cockerill enjoys keynote speaker Gary Hirsch's dynamic presentation as she prepares to read his honorary doctorate citation.
The College conferred an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree upon Hirsch. The citation lauded him for his authenticity and the creative ways in which he helps others practice adaptability, empathy and presence. It continued to note his work “reflects values that resonate deeply” with Wilmington College. It continued, “As our graduates go forth into the world, your message will encourage them to be brave leaders, grounded in values, attentive to others, and committed to building a more compassionate and connected future.”
Hayley Hixson, a December graduate of the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program, spoke on behalf of those who earned master’s degrees. She urged others to seek out mentors. Hers was MSOT Program Director Erin Bales, who served in that capacity even before Hixson entered WC’s program. “We can’t do this thing called life on our own,” she said. “Mentors can see potential in you and push you to be someone greater.”
Zachary McGuirt, who represented the undergraduates, said WC is “different,” “it’s special,” “it’s about relationships,” “it’s about people,” and “it’s about empowering students.” “Take with you what made Wilmington special. Take the relationships. Take the eagerness to show up for people. Take the courage to step into opportunities before you feel ready. No matter where we go next, we’re not going alone.
“The world needs more of what we found here!”
President Corey Cockerill hearkened to the College’s first Commencement in 1875 when President Benjamin Trueblood said, “Joy and success mellow and soften us, as we look out along the walk of our own little circle of knowledge to the great unknown beyond, where our work and duty meet.” Cockerill told the graduates that’s where they stand now, “at the edge of what you know, and at the beginning of what you don’t.”
Again, quoting Trueblood, “Remember that knowledge is for use and not merely for display. It is to feed and strengthen the great powers of doing good.” Cockerill replied, “That’s the charge. Use what you’ve learned, not to show it, but to do something with it.”
Finally, Trueblood said, “Keep constantly at your side a noble ideal of your own best self.” “Hold fast to that, Cockerill said. “Because the world will move out from under your feet. Expectations will drift. Opportunities will come and go. But who you choose to be — that’s yours to keep.”
TOP PHOTO: Collin Barker approaches President Corey Cockerill to receive his diploma. Barker graduated summa cum laude with majors in education and history.