Award-winning gymnast, activist, and UCLA alumna Katelyn Ohashi was selected as the keynote speaker for the UCLA College commencement ceremonies held on June 10, 2022, at Pauley Pavilion. The highly anticipated event featured three separate ceremonies throughout the day at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m., each celebrating the achievements of UCLA’s graduating class.
In addition to Ohashi’s speech, the commencement program included remarks from UCLA Chancellor Gene Block and selected student speakers. Ohashi’s presence at the event was seen as an inspiring tribute to perseverance, resilience, and self-expression—values that have defined both her gymnastics career and her advocacy work.
A Role Model for Resilience and Leadership
Senior Dean of the UCLA College, David Schaberg, emphasized why Ohashi was a fitting choice for the keynote address:
“Katelyn Ohashi epitomizes Bruin values with her strength of character, compassion, and leadership in the face of challenges. She will inspire our graduating seniors and UCLA community to approach the next chapter of their lives with open hearts and limitless courage.”
Ohashi, a former UCLA gymnast and a well-known advocate for body positivity and self-empowerment, has used her platform to encourage others to embrace challenges and find confidence in themselves.
“I am so proud to address my fellow Bruins and help celebrate this wonderful accomplishment in their lives,” Ohashi said ahead of the event. “I hope to inspire them to embrace challenges, love themselves, and find their voices.”
A Journey of Passion and Determination
From a young age, Ohashi demonstrated a deep passion for gymnastics. She made her debut at the 2009 Junior Olympic National Championships at just 12 years old. Her hard work and dedication quickly propelled her to success, leading her to win the 2011 Junior National Championship and defeat Simone Biles at the 2013 American Cup.
However, her journey was not without obstacles. In 2014, Ohashi suffered a serious back injury and was advised that she might never be able to compete again. Rather than giving up, she worked tirelessly to regain her strength, eventually earning a full gymnastics scholarship to UCLA.
Her career as a UCLA Bruin was nothing short of extraordinary. Ohashi became an eight-time All-American and a four-time member of the USA Gymnastics junior national team. She remains one of the most decorated gymnasts in UCLA history, earning 11 perfect 10s throughout her college career.
One of her most memorable performances was her 2019 floor routine, which became an internet sensation. Her routine not only captivated audiences worldwide but also highlighted her joyful and expressive approach to gymnastics. She was later named Pac-12 Specialist of the Year in both 2018 and 2019, and she secured multiple championships in floor exercise and balance beam competitions.
Beyond Gymnastics: A Commitment to Advocacy
While Ohashi’s gymnastics achievements are remarkable, her impact extends far beyond the sport. During her time at UCLA, she was actively involved in fundraising efforts to support individuals experiencing homelessness and volunteered for Project Heal, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals recover from eating disorders.
Her advocacy for body positivity and self-love gained widespread recognition, particularly after she delivered a spoken-word poem at the 2019 ESPY Awards. In the poem, she addressed issues such as body shaming, online negativity, and personal struggles, reinforcing her commitment to promoting mental and physical well-being.
Through her work as a motivational speaker and activist, Ohashi continues to use her voice to encourage self-acceptance and resilience, inspiring people worldwide to embrace their individuality.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Bruins
Ohashi’s selection as the 2022 UCLA College commencement speaker was made by a committee of students, faculty, and administrators, recognizing her exceptional ability to motivate and connect with young audiences.
Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, proving that setbacks do not define a person—determination, resilience, and passion do. Her keynote address was expected to uplift and empower the graduating class, leaving them with a lasting message of confidence and courage as they embarked on their next journeys.
The UCLA College commencement ceremony celebrated not only academic achievements but also the values that define the UCLA community: leadership, determination, and the drive to make a difference. With Katelyn Ohashi at the helm of this momentous occasion, the event was an inspiring reflection of what it means to be a true Bruin.
