The MIT School of Architecture and Planning celebrated the Class of 2025 at its Advanced Degree Ceremony on Thursday, May 29, 2025, in Kresge Auditorium.
Commencement 2025
One Commencement
Mary Robinson addresses the SA+P Class of 2025
Former President of Ireland Mary Robinson delivered the keynote address to graduates and their guests at the 2025 MIT SA+P Advanced Degree Ceremony.
In her remarks, Robinson encouraged graduates to stand by their values, find ways to lead, and put their skills and talents to work addressing the climate crisis. Drawing on experiences from her career in law, politics, and human rights, she reflected on the importance of principled leadership and the responsibility to act on urgent global challenges.
About Mary Robinson
Mary Robinson is a lawyer, former President of Ireland, former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and a leading advocate for human rights and climate justice.
A graduate of Trinity College Dublin, King’s Inns, and Harvard Law School, Robinson began her career as a barrister and academic and served for 20 years in the Irish Senate. In 1990, she became the first woman elected President of Ireland, serving until 1997, when she was appointed United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. She held that position until 2002.
Robinson has since held a number of international roles focused on human rights, peace, and climate change, including serving as a United Nations Special Envoy on Climate Change. She is a founding member of The Elders, the independent group of global leaders established by Nelson Mandela, and served as its chair from 2018 to 2024. She remains an active member of the organization and serves as Adjunct Professor for Climate Justice at Trinity College Dublin.
Questions
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