Simone Biles Inspires Graduates with Keynote Speech, Receives Honorary Doctorate

Simone Biles Delivers Inspiring Commencement Address at Washington University St. Louis, MO – Olympic gymnast Simone Biles delivered a powerful and personal keynote address at Washington University's 2025 commencement ceremony. The event, held on May 12th, saw Biles share valuable life lessons with the graduating class, emphasizing the importance of self-control and embracing leadership. The ceremony also marked the awarding of an honorary doctorate in Humane Letters to the celebrated athlete. "Being the GOAT was never the goal," Biles stated, "All I ever wanted was to be the greatest Simone that I could be." Her words resonated deeply with the graduating students, many of whom were visibly moved by her message of self-improvement and perseverance. Biles also encouraged the graduates to "stay creative" and to remember that "the only thing you can control is yourself." She emphasized the importance of mindfulness and self-care, offering a balanced perspective on the pressures of success. The ceremony concluded with Biles receiving her honorary doctorate, a moment captured in the video with visible joy and celebration. Her inspiring speech and the overall celebratory atmosphere made the event a memorable one for both graduates and viewers.