Ed Diehl

Honored to Speak at the Class of 2026 Graduation

I recently had the honor of delivering the keynote address at the graduation ceremony for Cascade Virtual Academy, Insight School of Oregon, and Destinations Career Academy of Oregon.

To every graduate: congratulations. You have completed an important chapter and earned something no one can ever take from you, a quality education.

In my remarks, I shared that while I studied engineering and built a career in business before entering public service, the most valuable lesson has always been the willingness to keep learning. Life rarely follows a straight path, and success depends far more on perseverance than on having every answer in advance.

I encouraged the graduates to embrace challenges, serve their communities, and remember that character and determination define our legacy more than titles or paychecks.

Class of 2026, Oregon’s future is brighter because of you. Keep learning. Persevere through obstacles. Serve others. And never underestimate the difference one determined person can make.

May God bless each of you and the great State of Oregon.

Thank you to the students, families, teachers, and staff who made this milestone possible.