Dr. Andreas Charalambous

22nd Convocation Exercises

Keynote Address – July 13, 2025

Distinguished faculty, proud families and loved ones, honored guests, and most importantly, graduates of the Class of 2025.

Galen University has held a special place in my heart ever since I had the privilege of serving as its founding president, and returning here to celebrate your remarkable achievements fills me with joy and gratitude.

As I reflect on the significance of today, I am reminded of a timeless poem that has always moved me deeply: Ithaca by C.P. Cavafy. Its words are inspired by Homer’s epic work Odyssey, which describes the adventures of King Odysseus, on his quest to return to his island, Ithaca after the Trojan war. The poem of CP Cavafy speaks to the universal experience of life as a journey—full of challenges, growth, discovery, and meaning. In fact, I must confess, I’ve already given all of you a small “assignment” for today: a copy of Ithaca has been shared with each of you. Consider it your final piece of homework from Galen University (don’t worry, you won’t be graded).

Now, I know what you’re all thinking: “Homework? At my graduation?” But I promise, there’s a reason for it. This poem holds a message that I hope will resonate with you not just today, but for years to come. It begins:

“As you set out for Ithaca, wish that the road be long, full of adventure, full of knowledge.”

This moment—your graduation—is a great milestone. It’s a destination you’ve worked incredibly hard to reach, and it is absolutely worthy of celebration. But while today may feel like an endpoint, what Cavafy’s poem teaches us is that it is not the arrival at Ithaca that matters most. It is the richness of the journey that gives meaning to our lives.