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Terence “Bud” Crawford’s UNO Commencement Address Draws National Attention

Terence “Bud” Crawford makes national waves with his inspiring speech at UNO’s May 2025 Commencement.

  • published: 2025/05/19
  • contact: Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications
  • email: unonews@unomaha.edu
Undefeated world championship boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford is treated by University of Nebraska at Omaha chancellor Joanne Li before he speaks at commencement.

Undefeated world championship boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford is treated by University of Nebraska at Omaha chancellor Joanne Li before he speaks at commencement. Photo: Ryan Soderlin, Office of Strategic Marketing and Communications.

Terence “Bud” Crawford’s keynote address at UNO’s May Commencement ceremony didn’t just resonate with local graduates, it drew major national media coverage. FOX Sports, Associated Press, and The Washington Post all spotlighted Crawford’s message of perseverance and resilience as he shared his journey from a troubled youth to undefeated boxing champion.

💡 Why it matters: Crawford’s words went beyond his boxing achievements, focusing on themes of overcoming adversity and striving for personal growth. He told graduates, “You control your own destiny,” reflecting on his own struggles, including being kicked out of school and surviving a gunshot wound, and how his mentors helped shape his success.

📸 The big picture: His speech not only inspired UNO’s Class of 2025 but also caught the attention of national media outlets. The Associated Press highlighted how Crawford’s message mirrored his boxing philosophy— “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face,” urging students to embrace challenges.

🥊 Local pride: Crawford’s message echoed in local outlets too. The Omaha World-Herald, WOWT, and KETV captured the excitement, emphasizing the importance of his appearance in both the local community and the broader media landscape.

Read more about Crawford’s address on UNO’s website.

For more on Crawford’s message and its nationwide impact, read the full stories on FOX Sports, the Associated Press, and The Washington Post.

Read the full article on FOX Sports
Read the full article on the Associated Press
Read the full article on The Washington Post

About the University of Nebraska at Omaha

Located in one of America’s best cities to live, work and learn, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in 200-plus programs of study, UNO is recognized nationally for its online education, graduate education, military friendliness and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to another century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.

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