On June 2, Wellesley Institute CEO Dr. Kwame McKenzie delivered the convocation speech to graduates at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health and the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work. Read an excerpt from Dr. McKenzie’s speech below.
“I know some of you will say –
“Let’s be honest and realistic, we are graduating at a time when the world faces profound challenges and dislocations. There is poverty, health inequity, a climate crisis and the impacts of rapid social change.”
To that I would say –
“You are right. I agree. We face complex problems without simple solutions. And they are and have always been part of the work of public health and social work.”
Both your professions aim to advance human wellbeing. Both aim to create conditions in which all people have the opportunity to thrive. Both are needed more than ever.
And your professions have been successful.
They have transformed society, promoted justice, improved fairness and have given people hope during their most difficult times.
Your degrees and diplomas have prepared you for the challenges we now face. Now it is your turn to continue that legacy.
There will be good times when you will have the opportunity to add humanity to our systems, to improve health, strengthen communities and to help individuals become more empowered.
There will be tough times when it feels like nothing is going right; when resources are limited, policy seems to be harming people and society seems to be moving in the wrong direction.
Whether it is at times of joy or hardship and wherever your journey takes you – in the health or community sector, government agencies, the academy or beyond – I hope you stay true to your values. …
Today, we celebrate your accomplishments.
Tomorrow, I look forward to witnessing your impact. “