Chemical Biology doctoral student Maribel E. K. Okiye was selected as speaker for the 2024 Rackham Graduate exercises on May 3. She completed her doctorate with Professor David Sherman. Throughout her time at Michigan Chemistry, she was also was awarded a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship and was recognized by  National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE) with a 2021 NOBCChE Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry Division Oral Presentation Award. She was instrumental in the revitalization of the Michigan NOBCChE chapter.

Rackham Graduate Exercises Speech by Maribel E. K. Okiye

“I’m thrilled to stand before you today. As I pondered what message to share, I found myself reflecting on the vast tapestry of experiences and challenges we've faced as University of Michigan graduate students. In a world that seems increasingly complex, finding our footing amidst the cacophony has become a daunting task.

“Despite the Earth’s physical size remaining constant, our perceived world has dramatically expanded over the course of our six-year journey together. The pandemic, a period when the entire globe seemed to come to a halt, offered a rare moment of universal pause. One might have expected this shared experience, amplified by the ubiquity of social media, to bring us closer.

“I often think about what solutions could truly fix the world today. I find myself asking “If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?” While I have many options – eradicating world hunger or establishing peace – my heart settles on a more foundational longing: compassion.

“It strikes me that the essence of compassion—truly seeing and feeling life from another’s perspective—has been overshadowed by the technologies that promise to connect us. In a world craving genuine connection, reinstating compassion as a guiding principle is more crucial than ever.

“As we reflect on our journey, it’s crucial to acknowledge the invaluable nature of our acquired knowledge and experiences. However, amidst this wisdom, there's a profound truth that stands out: it's not merely what we've learned or achieved that defines us, but how we've engaged and uplifted those around us. Every shout at a football game, every friendly "Go Blue" to a fellow Wolverine – these are the moments that reinforce our shared bond and embody the spirit of the Michigan community.

“This insight brings us to the essence of compassion. In a world brimming with information and connectivity, it is the quality of our interactions and the warmth of our empathy that carve the deepest memories in the hearts of those we touch. And now, because of Michigan, we are all connected—through our memories, through our experiences, and through our love of being Michigan Wolverines.

“Therefore, if there’s only one thing you take from today, amid the pomp and circumstance, let it be this simple yet powerful reminder: While the facts we learn and the achievements we accumulate are significant, the legacy we leave behind is ultimately crafted by the feelings we evoke in others. How we make people feel — through our words, actions, and gestures of kindness — becomes our indelible mark on the world, our most enduring legacy.

"While this charge toward compassion may seem daunting, I am confident in our abilities. The University of Michigan has prepared us well. Let us carry the spirit of this great university with us—always striving, always daring to contribute more. 

“Congratulations, graduates! Let's go forth and make our mark on the world.”