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“I was supposed to put on a robe and record a Convocation speech from my living room.

But instead, I’ve got a message for COVID-19.

Get ready.

The class of 2020 is coming for you.

And this won’t be a fair fight.

I’ve met this next generation of scientists.

They’ve done amazing work in our classrooms and labs, on the job, on campus and in our community.

I also know who’s taught, mentored and inspired them.

The Class of 2020 is smart, resilient and resourceful.

Solving problems is what they do. The bigger, the better and the harder they lean in.

The Class of 2020 has spent years working hard for a moment exactly like this.

They’re ready to step up and help out in a big way.

So get ready, COVID-19. You’ve disrupted us.

But the Class of 2020… they’re the ones who are going to transform our world through science.

And we’ll always be in their corner.

Like I said, this won’t be a fair fight.

You’re on borrowed time COVID-19.

You will be defeated.

And long after you’re gone, the Class of 2020 will still be making a difference.

Solving whatever problems come next.

And doing their part to help build a brighter world”.