Anthony Fauci Speaks at Commencement, Champions Truth in a Time of Falsehood

“You have been prepared academically, professionally, spiritually, and personally,” Fauci said to the humanities and science graduates assembled in St. Ignatius Church. “Caring for others has guided me, as it will guide you. Caring for others will be your North Star.”

In his speech Fauci emphasized the “importance of solid evidence” in health care research. He mentioned how in the 1990s, “HIV went from a death sentence to a treatable condition. During the COVID-19 pandemic, in 11 months a vaccine was developed, all because of an investment in vaccine science” over the previous decades.

“This is the beauty of science at its best,” Fauci said. “Unfortunately, a significant anti-science sentiment is now undermining evidence-based scientific findings, and disparagement of science is undermining public health.” 

A Jesuit-educated physician and scientist who served under seven presidents, Fauci led efforts to address diseases including HIV, SARS, Ebola, and COVID-19. In 2008, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his work on AIDS relief. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he served on the White House Coronavirus Task Force and later as chief medical adviser.

“Today in our society we see the normalization and acceptance of untruths,” Fauci said. “Falsehood threatens science, universities, business, law, and the press. I plead with you: Draw on your Jesuit training to employ critical thinking. Respect evidence-based information. Seek opinions other than your own, but discern and challenge untruths. Do not hesitate to push back with all the strength you can muster.”