Oregon’s Own Olympic Champion to Inspire OSU Graduates This Spring

Oregon State University has announced that Olympic gold medalist and Oregon native Jade Carey will deliver the keynote address at this year’s commencement ceremony. The event, set to take place in Corvallis in June, promises to be a homecoming of sorts for the celebrated gymnast, who rose to international fame on the world’s biggest athletic stage.

Carey, a product of the local gymnastics scene, shot to stardom during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she captured a gold medal in the floor exercise and brought pride back to the Beaver State. Her journey from a young athlete training in Oregon gyms to standing atop an Olympic podium embodies the very resilience and dedication that OSU hopes to celebrate in its graduating class.

University officials say they chose Carey not just for her athletic accolades, but for her relatable story of perseverance and humility. Despite the pressures of elite competition, she has remained grounded in her Oregon roots, often speaking about the support she received from the community. Her address is expected to focus on the importance of hard work, dealing with setbacks, and finding success on one’s own terms—themes that resonate deeply with students preparing to step into the next chapter of their lives.

This year’s graduation is especially poignant as OSU continues to rebound from recent challenges, including campus disruptions and shifting academic landscapes. Injecting a dose of hometown pride, the selection of Carey sends a clear message: that Oregon’s future leaders, much like their Olympic champion, can achieve greatness without leaving their values behind.

For many in the audience, Carey’s presence will serve as a powerful reminder that excellence isn’t found in a far-off land, but right here in the valleys and gyms of the Pacific Northwest. The university expects a record turnout as students, families, and fans alike prepare to cheer on one of Oregon’s brightest stars as she takes the podium.