I love graduations. The graduates are full of excitement, and the guests are proud and supportive. I especially love hearing the graduation speeches, which are usually right up my ally. They are almost always designed to inspire and encourage young people -- our future leaders.
I felt moved by the keynote speech given by Sam Khichi at Fordham Law's 2026 Diploma Ceremony. Sam shared a story about arriving in America as a child. His parents worked incredibly hard and eventually bought a dry-cleaning store.
Every morning the family helped open the business before heading off to school. Then one day they were told the children could no longer attend the local school because they lived outside the district.
His father was crushed. Then a teacher noticed—and changed everything—quietly directing the family to a local Catholic school, where the sisters of St. James took them in.
Someone noticed.
Someone cared.
Someone helped.
Leaders, a new generation of employees is arriving in your workplace. Some will be confident. Some will be anxious. Some will be carrying challenges you know nothing about. You don't need to solve every problem.
But do this: Notice who needs reassurance, a little guidance or an opportunity to grow. Then say something:
- Give a sincere compliment
- Provide a quick coaching tip
- Offer an introduction to another leader
Be The Difference
As leaders, it's our obligation to better those who follow us. It really is the most important work we do. Make it part of your every day.
Colleen McFarland
colleenmcfarland.us
Postscripts
Here are some other nuggets from Sam Khichi's speech that I loved. Share them with someone you care about and are pushing to grow.
"If you carry gratitude with you, you will never confuse your success with self-sufficiency."
"This country does not guarantee outcomes; it guarantees something more important, a chance to try."
"The world you're entering won't suffer from a lack of information; it will suffer from a lack of judgment, wisdom, and patience that will distinguish you. Your judgment will distinguish you."
You can find Sam Khichi's full speech here, starting at 41:10.
To win with young talent, get your copy of my latest book, Get GenZ into the Game.
