Simone Biles gives inspirational commencement speech at Washington University

Jael Rucker

•
Simone Biles gives inspirational commencement speech at Washington University image

Simone Biles delivered an inspirational speech at the Washington University commencement ceremony, where she was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree.

Delivering the speech nearly two hours into the ceremony, the gold medalist spoke for a little over ten minutes, telling the audience, "You might think I’m used to the spotlight, but I would probably feel more comfortable if they had allowed me to vault onto the stage or do a little floor routine. But really, today is your day. While I may be considered an elite athlete, I know that you are elite students." Biles remarks drew an applause from the crowd.

"The world doesn’t need you to be perfect," she continued. "It needs you to be bold, it needs you to care, and to keep going even when things don’t go as planned. So go out there and write your own story — one that only you can tell." After her inspiring speech, Washington University took to Instagram to pay their respects to the legendary athlete.

MORE: Natalia Bryant stuns in chic outfit at Beverly Hills Tory Burch store opening

"@simonebiles is no stranger to the podium — or to greatness. As the most decorated gymnast of all time, her athletic achievements speak for themselves," they wrote in their caption. "But what’s just as remarkable is her advocacy beyond the mat: championing mental health, supporting foster care youth, and amplifying the voices of sexual assault survivors."

The University continued: "At WashU’s 164th Commencement, she delivered a golden message and a powerful reminder that perfection isn’t the goal — courage is. It was a great honor to present her with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters as she inspired the #WashU25 class to rise, lead, and leap boldly into their next chapter. Congratulations #WashU25 and congratulations, Dr. Biles! ❤️🎉💚." 

Indeed. Huge congrats Dr. Biles.

MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS:

Jael Rucker

Jael Rucker has worked as the Associate Commerce Editor at PureWow, focusing on analytics and trends to pitch stories and optimize articles that build and engage their audience. Her work has also been seen in Footwear News and WWD. Prior to 2024, she was the style and pop culture editor at ONE37pm for over three years, contributing numerous product reviews, brand profiles and fashion trend reports, which included interviewing Steph Curry, Snoop Dogg and more.