Change is Earth’s only constant. It is everywhere. It radiates from the sun, saturates the sky, and grows from the ground.

And yet the change graduating from De Anza College creates is special, different.

It is a change that symbolizes an end as well as a beginning.

Some of us will transfer to four-year universities, others will leave the state, and still others will enter the workforce. Yet all of us will venture into a new chapter of our lives.

No matter where our futures lead us, no matter how much our paths diverge, we must never forget that we share a common destiny, one with large responsibilities.

We live in a world of gaping inequality. Almost half the world — more than 3 billion people — lives on less than $2.50 a day. About 22,000 children die each day from inescapable poverty.

These are not mundane statistics, but real issues affecting real people. I urge all of you, my fellow graduating class members, to be mindful of these facts and to  dedicate a portion of your lives to creating positive and lasting change so everyone can benefit from the fruits of society.

As citizens of one of the most privileged countries in the world, we have an obligation to assist our brothers and sisters who are fettered by the chains of poverty.

I have no doubt many of us will realize our untapped potential, go on to accomplish great things and become the leaders of our generation. My faith in the 2013 graduating class hinges on the perseverance, grit, and dedication we’ve seen taken place throughout our years at De Anza. Our accomplishments are a product of passion and hard work.

Congratulations De Anza College’s 2013 graduating class! “Be the change you want to see in the world.”