Commencement Address: Mike Bechtel ’94

A Beacon of Hope: Inspiring the Next Generation

At the Sai Kripalu Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of education and the boundless potential within each individual. Recently, we witnessed a beautiful example of this as Mike Bechtel, a compassionate leader and visionary, addressed the graduating Class of 2025 and the wider community at Morgan Park Academy.

Mike, a dedicated servant of innovation, embodies the spirit of selfless service that we hold dear. As Chief Futurist at Deloitte Consulting, he guides organizations towards a brighter future, ensuring that technology serves humanity with compassion and wisdom. His work as an adjunct professor at the University of Notre Dame further demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation of compassionate leaders.

His journey, from co-founding Ringleader Ventures to his pioneering work at Accenture Labs, showcases a life dedicated to creating solutions that uplift and empower. With twelve U.S. patents to his name, Mike has consistently used his talents to foster innovation that benefits all.

Words of Wisdom, Seeds of Compassion

Mike's address resonated deeply with the graduating class, offering not just career advice, but a call to action rooted in empathy and understanding. He shared his insights with humility and grace, reminding everyone of the importance of using their gifts to create a more just and equitable world.

He spoke of his role as a "futurist," not merely as a predictor of trends, but as a guide who helps leaders navigate the complexities of our time with integrity and compassion. His words served as a powerful reminder that true progress lies not just in technological advancement, but in the ethical and compassionate application of knowledge.

A Future Built on Compassion

At the Sai Kripalu Foundation, we are inspired by individuals like Mike Bechtel, who dedicate their lives to serving others and building a brighter future for all. We believe that by fostering compassion, promoting education, and empowering individuals, we can create a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive and live a life of dignity and purpose.

Let us all be inspired by Mike's example and strive to use our own unique talents to make a positive impact on the world, one act of kindness at a time.