Princeton University began its graduation events for the Class of 2026 with the 279th Baccalaureate service on May 24, held in the University Chapel. Craig Robinson, executive director of the National Association of Basketball Coaches and a Princeton alumnus from the Class of 1983, delivered the keynote address to graduating seniors.
The Baccalaureate service marks an important tradition at Princeton, offering students a moment to reflect on their experiences and look ahead to life after graduation. The event includes music, blessings, and readings from various faith traditions. Seniors wore their caps and gowns for the first time as friends and families watched via simulcast from multiple campus locations.
In his remarks, Robinson emphasized living life as “a work in progress,” encouraging graduates to remain open to changes that may lead them down better paths. He recounted a story about feeling overwhelmed during his first year at Princeton and receiving reassurance from his father: “Craig, you’re not going to be No. 1 in the class. But you’re also not going to be No. 1,001. No matter where you land, you will always have a Princeton degree. So relax, and do your best.” Robinson said this advice helped him realize that persistence mattered more than perfection.
University President Christopher L. Eisgruber greeted seniors by reflecting on nearly three centuries of service as central to Princeton’s ethos: “Our first informal motto, ‘Princeton in the Nation’s Service,’ originated in a speech given by Professor Woodrow Wilson… On Princeton’s 250th birthday we expanded the motto… Heeding [Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s] advice, we revised our informal motto to ‘Princeton in the Nation’s Service and the Service of Humanity’ two years later.” Eisgruber encouraged graduates: “I hope that you will embrace our motto and make it your own…”
Robinson described his own journey through what he called “The Swerve,” shifting academic majors at Princeton before pursuing basketball overseas then working in finance prior to coaching basketball at Brown University and Oregon State University. He urged students not to compare themselves with others or measure success solely by external standards: “Stay focused on becoming the best version of yourself — not a copy of someone else.” Quoting his father again near closing, he told graduates: “Give yourself permission to be a work in progress… Go out there and be brave enough to evolve.”
Following readings by selected seniors representing different religious traditions and musical performances by chapel musicians, Associate Dean Matthew Weiner concluded with a benediction for students before they recessed down the nave.
