Alumna Haley Scott DeMaria Delivers 2012 Commencement Address

Urging the class of 2012 to embrace a life of gratitude, Haley Scott DeMaria, the 1995 University of Notre Dame alumna who made an inspiring recovery from critical injuries suffered in a tragic 1992 bus accident involving the Fighting Irish swimming team, challenged Notre Dame graduates to choose each day to celebrate the blessings in their lives, even during the darkest times.

DeMaria was the principal speaker and recipient of an honorary doctor of laws degree at the 167th University Commencement Ceremony, at which 1,973 graduates received their diplomas on Sunday (May 20) in Notre Dame Stadium. More: http://newsinfo.nd.edu/news/30929-cla...

News release: http://newsinfo.nd.edu/news/29908-alu...

Speech video: http://youtu.be/CnMA4mMW_1s

Speech transcription: http://newsinfo.nd.edu/news/30930-hal...

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[Earle Waters]

Well done Haley, Collen Hipp was my niece. Thank you for your thoughts. Your remarks were very motivational. Keep sharing your story and making a difference with your path. Her parents speak so highly of you.

[karaholden]

I'm crying -- so inspiring, thank you.

[undmom]

Just fabulous.

[Peter Biava]

well done haley. very motivational. she handled the entire speech so well.

[DeWitt Gibson]

Wow



[hattrick364]

Haley certainly is an inspiration. Great speech.

[spyfoxguy]

Such an incredible speech. It was unfortunate that some of my fellow seniors disagreed with the speaker choice..but in that Haley DeMaria way, she overcame all obstacles and won.the day. I mean, she even acknowledged that she doesn't have a Wikipedia page (a complaint of editorial-writing seniors). Now THAT is owning it. Thank you Haley for your tremendous inspiration.

[Mark Catanzaro]

The most up-lifting, enlightening, words of wisdom I have not heard in a long, long, time, wow.

[theraceclub]

Haley, NIce job! You brought tears to my eyes. We are so proud of you. Please say hi to your family from all of the Halls.

Gary Sr.