Chippewa Valley Times

Sanders, co-founder and managing partner of Arrowpoint Labs and chief business officer of Singular Immune, addressed graduates at UW-Eau Claire. He shared insights from his career journey, which began after graduating in 2015 with a degree in materials science. Sanders emphasized the importance of curiosity and risk-taking over having a detailed plan.

“That’s the beauty of not having it all figured out: It leaves room for discovery,” Sanders stated. “It gives you the freedom to pivot, to explore, to find passions and purposes that you never even knew existed. Some of you may walk out of here today with a clear vision of what you want to do. Others may be less certain. Both paths are valid. Both paths are worthy.”

Sanders delivered the "Charge to the Class" during ceremonies where 659 Blugolds received degrees at The Sonnentag. He was one of seven alumni recognized as UW-Eau Claire Alumni Association award recipients.

Reflecting on his experiences since graduation, Sanders highlighted personal growth occurring between certainty and doubt or success and failure. He encouraged embracing failure as a learning opportunity.

“Don’t fear failure; embrace it,” he said. “Let it teach you resilience. Let it refine your vision. Let it remind you that progress is often messy, but always worth it.”

He urged graduates to seek mentors who support them and emphasized character over job titles or salaries.

“As you leave this institution and step into the world, know that you are not defined by your job title, your salary or the speed at which you achieve your goals,” Sanders remarked. “You are defined by your character, your curiosity and your commitment to leaving people and the communities you are a part of better than when you found them.”

Chancellor James Schmidt also addressed graduates, acknowledging their challenging journey balancing academics with other responsibilities.

“Even if the path behind you now looks clear and inevitable, each of you undoubtedly faced challenges along the way,” Schmidt said. “But you kept going. You didn’t shy away from difficulties. Instead, you found opportunities to think differently.”

Schmidt encouraged graduates to carry their experiences forward with gratitude as they embark on new endeavors.

“With gratitude for your experiences, excitement for the future and a strong character as your guide, let today be a celebration for the new chapter that now commences,” Schmidt concluded. “If you keep walking the rare and difficult path of excellence, I have no doubt you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”