Each year during the baccalaureate ceremony, an alumnus parent presents a speech imparting wisdom on the graduating class as they join the alumni family. This year’s presenter, Chad Harrod ’95, the father of Lee Harrod ’26 and Hank Harrod ’29, discussed the importance of learning from adversity and becoming a stronger person as a result.

Harrod began his speech humorously, expressing sympathy as he explained that he had received his baccalaureate speech from General Schwarzkopf, who led Operation Desert Storm, while the Class of 2026 had to hear a speech from him. He then explained how his high school career did not consist of perfect grades, but rather average grades and immense hope that the future would turn out well. Regardless, Harrod attended the University of Texas at Austin and is now the Chief Executive Officer of Harrod Properties.

Harrod continued by explaining that while high grades and test scores are impressive, intelligence will only get a person so far. “Being interesting,” he said, “can lead to even greater success.” He said, with the rise of AI, raw intelligence alone is not enough. Individual experiences are what set humans apart and can never be replaced.

Additionally, Harrod listed three main characteristics that interesting people share. To begin, interesting people are not the same as impressive people. They make others feel connected rather than intimidated. Second, an interesting person does not become that way intentionally. Third, Harrod discussed how interesting people embrace challenges rather than fall victim to them. He elaborated on this third trait using a personal example.

“Remember, my third characteristic is that those types of people have grown stronger through adversity. When I was thirteen, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Yeah. That one still gets people’s attention. At 13, you’re supposed to worry about which high school you will attend,” he said.

Harrod then described how this traumatic experience ultimately positively served him. He was able to draw on his story when applying to UT Austin, demonstrating how tragedy can reveal endurance and strength in difficult times.

Harrod concluded his speech by further highlighting the importance of seeking an interesting life. He deliberately used the word “interesting” because of its subjectivity, noting that everyone’s experiences are different and constantly evolving. He explained that in a world where intelligence is increasingly common, curating a unique collection of memories, anecdotes, stories, and struggles—and learning from them—gives a person individuality and distinctiveness. He encourages the graduating class not to strive for perfection but to focus on building grit and determination through personal situations.  

He highlighted the importance of turning difficulties into leverage, adding, “Let life rough you up a little. Not because you should seek out suffering, but because when it inevitably finds you, you’ll know what to do with it: turn it into fuel. Turn it into stories.” 

To read Harrod’s speech, click here.