Cheers, jeers, and laughs: The speeches about AI that drew strong responses from 2026 grads

As college graduates step into a future dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), many are expressing discomfort with reminders of this new reality during their commencement ceremonies. The class of 2026 is finding that discussing AI has become a contentious topic, leading to notable reactions from both speakers and students across the nation. At the University of Arizona, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt faced a wave of boos as he addressed the graduates. "The question is not whether AI will shape the world. It will," Schmidt asserted. He acknowledged the fears students harbor about a future they feel is already determined by technology, emphasizing the unsettling impacts AI has had on society. In contrast, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak received enthusiastic applause at Grand Valley State University for his lighthearted comments about AI. He humorously declared, "You have AI — actual intelligence," while reflecting on humanity's ongoing efforts to replicate brain functions through AI technology. Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian shared his experience of consulting AI for his speech at Emory University, ultimately discarding the algorithm-generated content for a more personal touch. "Don't worry, I threw it away, and took pencil to paper," he conveyed, emphasizing the importance of authenticity over convenience. Record executive Scott Borchetta, addressing Middle Tennessee State University, noted how AI is rapidly changing the music industry, akin to how streaming transformed it before. Despite the backlash he faced, Borchetta remained resolute, urging students to harness AI as a tool rather than fear it. Comedian Conan O'Brien lightened the atmosphere at Harvard by quipping, "AI cannot replace you," while poking fun at the competitive dynamics between institutions. He humorously suggested that professors at Harvard were adept at identifying AI use among students. Fashion designer Jeremy Scott took a bold stance at the Kansas City Art Institute by tearing up his AI-generated speech, celebrating the uniqueness of human creativity. He underscored that AI lacks the ability to generate truly original thoughts or ideas. Basketball icon Magic Johnson addressed the need for graduates to engage with AI, warning them that while AI won't replace them, those who understand it will take their jobs. He emphasized the potential of AI as a significant opportunity for economic growth in the coming years. On a more provocative note, comedian Ronny Chieng delivered a blunt message to Harvard students, urging them to reject AI. He argued that the essence of creativity lies in the journey, not just the end product. In a reflective moment, journalist Fareed Zakaria advised Bard College graduates that society is misframing the discussion about AI, suggesting a shift in focus towards understanding what makes human intelligence irreplaceable. He concluded by reminding students that while machines may mimic us, they cannot replicate the emotional depth of human experiences.