Message from ArtCenter

It is a privilege to welcome you here today. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the faculty and staff of ArtCenter College of Design, I congratulate you, the graduating class of Spring 2020, on the milestone you have reached today. 

Right now, the world looks very different than it did just a few short months ago. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our day-to-day lives in a manner unlike anything we’ve encountered in the history of the College. 

Yet the ArtCenter community has rallied in the face of adversity. And it was chiefly your resilience that pulled us to the finish line. With very little time to prepare, you transitioned to learning online, presented in critiques held via Zoom, and met with potential employers through a virtual networking event.

The circumstances were far from ideal, but the fact that we came together, assessed the situation and confronted it head-on is what’s truly important. The last few weeks drove home a truth we have long known: Our students, alumni, faculty and staff are fearless innovators who tackle any obstacle that comes their way.

One day—hopefully sooner than later—we’ll emerge on the other side of this crisis. When that day arrives, your creativity will be critical for moving us all forward. People and institutions across the globe will be looking for your leadership to help create new jobs, craft new methods of communication, and tell new stories for a new era.   

But for today—and even it’s only just for today—enjoy this moment. Celebrate your achievement. Take a long, much deserved breath. And then roll up your sleeves. 

The world has never needed you more. And you’ve already proven you’re up for the challenge.

Lorne M. Buchman, PhD

President