Paralympic Gold medalist Jorge Sanchez urges DeVry graduates to overcome limits
Paralympic Basketball gold medalist and Keller Graduate School of Management alum Jorge Sanchez delivered the keynote address at DeVry University and its Keller Graduate School of Management Commencement Ceremonies on Sunday, June 8.
Sanchez addressed more than 2,000 graduates and shared his incredible journey of how he overcame life’s greatest hurdles, beginning with just one step.
“We feel fortunate to have Jorge join us as our keynote speaker to celebrate the achievements of the graduating Class of 2025,” said Elise Awwad, president and CEO of DeVry University in Lisle. “His journey is one of extraordinary strength, perseverance and discipline. We look forward to the sage advice he will impart as our graduates step forward to meet the challenges and opportunities that await.”
“It’s an honor and privilege to return to my alma mater and address the Class of 2025,” noted Sanchez. “If you want something out of life, you have to go and get it. That’s been my guiding principle and it’s what carried me through my time at DeVry. These graduates embody the same relentless drive, overcoming challenges to achieve their dreams of an education. My hope is that my story will inspire them to believe in their limitless potential, and to know that with determination, nothing is beyond their reach.”
Commencement Weekend
The commencement ceremonies are part of a two-day Commencement Weekend. On Saturday, June 7, DeVry is hosting an event where the graduating class can further prepare for what’s next after graduation with career planning sessions and an alumni networking reception.
Commencement is a celebration for all graduates, regardless of where they call home.
On Sunday, graduating students from across the country, including high school students from DeVry University’s Advantage Academy in Chicago, Ill., have been invited to attend the in-person ceremony.
For those unable to travel or attend in person, DeVry will also host virtual commencement ceremonies on Sunday, July 13, so they and their families can celebrate wherever they reside.
A journey of resilience
A Keller Graduate School of Management alum and Paralympic gold medalist with Team USA in wheelchair basketball, Jorge Sanchez’s journey is one of resilience, determination and unwavering excellence.
Diagnosed with osteogenic sarcoma at 8 years old, Sanchez endured 23 surgeries, a near-death experience and left leg amputation. He turned his adversity into strength and discovered his passion, wheelchair basketball at 12 years old, becoming not only an elite athlete but also an inspiring advocate for perseverance and ambition.
Sanchez has been recognized as Latinos 40 under 40 Silicon Valley, 2024 and a Top 100 Champion of Change in Silicon Valley — A Humas Atlas, 2023.
From the global stage of the Paralympics to influential platforms like TEDx, Meta and Apple, his story continues to motivate individuals to push beyond their limits.