Matriculation Class of 2029

WARM WELCOME

Members of the Class of 2029, welcome to Rice! On behalf of the deans, faculty, staff, alumni, and the entire university community, I am delighted to have you here.

NEW BEGINNINGS

It has been wonderful seeing the excitement in our colleges as you and your families settled in this morning.

Move-in day and Matriculation are among my favorite times at Rice — they symbolize new beginnings, endless possibilities, and the hope that the future holds.

Over the next few years, you’ll embark on a journey that will shape you intellectually, personally, and professionally. You’ll take classes with world-class experts, live in a supportive community, and engage with diverse perspectives. At Rice, you’ll be challenged to think critically, to grow and to strive for excellence in all you do.

When you walk across the stage to receive your Rice degree, you’ll hold a piece of paper that opens countless doors. But beyond that, it will be the experiences and memories you create here — both in and outside the classroom — that will truly shape your life and the world you impact.

SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE

Almost 40 years ago, I began my own journey from New York City to UC Berkeley. Like you, I was excited, nervous, and ready for new challenges.

Neither of my parents had a college education, but they understood the power of learning and sacrificed so I could pursue higher education. The education I received at Berkeley and the community I built there propelled me to where I am today. It led me to over 35 countries, to teaching students like you, to helping my homeland in Haiti after the devastating 2010 earthquake there, and to leading institutions of higher learning.

I believe you, too, will find limitless opportunities here at Rice. This university is the perfect place to build a strong foundation for your future.

CLASS OF 2029

Rice is more than just an outstanding research university — we are a community committed to access, excellence, and care. Our residential college system and unique culture will support you intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

Matriculation is a perfect example of the individual attention you will get at Rice. Walking through the Sallyport signifies much more than beginning your studies, it represents becoming part of a larger community — the Rice community.

Your class, like every other class that has entered the university since 1912, is special. Your class, the largest and one of the most selective in Rice’s history, includes 1,339 new Owls from 49 states, 3 U.S. territories, Washington D.C., and 57 countries. You represent the diverse global community we foster here at Rice, and your differences — in backgrounds, cultures, beliefs — will be celebrated as one of our greatest strengths.

WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY

You’re entering a world that’s both challenging and inspiring. The problems we face today — from energy to inequality, from energy availability to health disparities — are complex. But technology, global collaboration, and social awareness give us powerful tools to address these challenges.

At Rice, you’ll receive a well-rounded education that empowers you to tackle the world’s most pressing issues, combining the sciences, technology, humanities, and arts. You’ll be equipped with the skills, knowledge, and the empathy to make a meaningful impact.

SUPPORT SYSTEM

The journey ahead will be supported by our residential colleges, where you’ll build lifelong friendships and find the encouragement you need to grow. Your community here at Rice is founded on the values of responsibility, integrity, community, and excellence — values that will guide you throughout your time here and beyond.

CLOSING

As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” During your time at Rice, you’ll gain the tools to do just that. We are excited to accompany you on this transformative journey.

Thank you for being here. Let’s make this journey one of success, joy, and world-changing impact. Welcome to Rice!