Be the Light: Elizabeth Bonker’s 2022 Valedictorian Speech at Rollins College Commencement

Rollins College’s 2022 Valedictorian Elizabeth Bonker, who is affected by non-speaking autism and communicates solely by typing, urges her fellow graduates to use their voices, serve others, and see the value in everyone they meet in her valedictory address.
Read more about Elizabeth's story: bit.ly/3P4rsdP

[@ShutTheMuckUp]

I can't imagine how hard it must be to have so much to say, and not be able to say it. I'm glad Elizabeth found a way to communicate.

[@DiogenesOfDelaware]

S/o capitalism

[@deiansalazar140]

@@DiogenesOfDelaware wtf is capitalism relevant to autism?

[@DiogenesOfDelaware]

@@deiansalazar140 without the ability to specialize in life, Such products and means for ppl with disabilities would not be as accessible.

[@deiansalazar140]

@@DiogenesOfDelaware I don't follow the what were you saying about S/O or whatever. The unregulated corporate libertarian capitalism is not the only way you can specialize in tasks and not only economic system that allows for multiple specializations. Alternatives include social democracy which I am. Market socialism is quite interesting as well. So I stand against centrally planned to totalitarianism socialism and communism and I've considered democratic socialism but I don't think I am a Democratic Socialist and thus not a socialist period.

[@DiogenesOfDelaware]

@@deiansalazar140 s/o = shout out. What I mean by this is that, only due to the pursuit of specialization through an apparatus of voluntary engagement products as life altering as this one and others come to existence at the quality that they do. Not the only way but proven the most effecient. When products are made involuntarily or be coercion quality is sacrificed. For example: slave labor is less effecient than voluntary or transactional exchange labor.

[@stephaniemcmorris1023]

What a great example for our your kids who are “nonverbal”. Thank you Elizabeth. While some people can’t speak the words, it doesn’t mean they have nothing to say!

[@michaelmoyer1647]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnaUZ4ljjKl9fKM This is Elizabeth’s mom giving a Ted talk on behalf of her daughter. She references a woman by the name of Soma Mukhopadhyay who “taught” Elizabeth how to speak using a method called RPM. This method is not evidence based. To summarize, it’s basically the partner doing all of the “talking/communicating”. I don’t share this to be rude or mean. I don’t share this because I have no heart. I share this because this is giving families with a child with autism and who is nonverbal and false sense of hope for something that is not attainable. People with autism are on a wide spectrum with varying abilities. They all communicate whether it be non verbal or verbal. We can improve the lives of these individuals, but not by praising the lies of those who concocting a blatant lie to tear at our hearts. I welcome any responses or questions or disagreements. Please just do your research before attacking my reply.

[@christinahoagland9800]

Fiat luz !!!

[@enmupsychmajor]

My son has nonverbal autism. He's 4 years old. Thank you.

[@wesleywalls7582]

"God gave you a voice. Use it." - Bravo young lady!

[@andreamacaluso7583]

This is the most beautiful thing I have seen in a long time. You will set the world aflame with the glow of your light and the light of those you help release from the cage of non-communication. I am also reminded that every time a neurodivergent person breaks norms and barriers, stigmas are shattered for all of us nuerodivergents. I applaud Rollins for seeing the person and the ability. This was so beautiful. thank you so much!

[@michaelmoyer1647]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnaUZ4ljjKl9fKM This is Elizabeth’s mom giving a Ted talk on behalf of her daughter. She references a woman by the name of Soma Mukhopadhyay who “taught” Elizabeth how to speak using a method called RPM. This method is not evidence based. To summarize, it’s basically the partner doing all of the “talking/communicating”. I don’t share this to be rude or mean. I don’t share this because I have no heart. I share this because this is giving families with a child with autism and who is nonverbal and false sense of hope for something that is not attainable. People with autism are on a wide spectrum with varying abilities. They all communicate whether it be non verbal or verbal. We can improve the lives of these individuals, but not by praising the lies of those who concocting a blatant lie to tear at our hearts. I welcome any responses or questions or disagreements. Please just do your research before attacking my reply.

[@levilukeskytrekker]

Congratulations, Elizabeth! So few of us with Autism are given the opportunity to get higher education, and I couldn't be happier for you! God bless you! Much love from a brother in Autism!

[@michaelmoyer1647]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnaUZ4ljjKl9fKM This is Elizabeth’s mom giving a Ted talk on behalf of her daughter. She references a woman by the name of Soma Mukhopadhyay who “taught” Elizabeth how to speak using a method called RPM. This method is not evidence based. To summarize, it’s basically the partner doing all of the “talking/communicating”. I don’t share this to be rude or mean. I don’t share this because I have no heart. I share this because this is giving families with a child with autism and who is nonverbal and false sense of hope for something that is not attainable. People with autism are on a wide spectrum with varying abilities. They all communicate whether it be non verbal or verbal. We can improve the lives of these individuals, but not by praising the lies of those who concocting a blatant lie to tear at our hearts. I welcome any responses or questions or disagreements. Please just do your research before attacking my reply.

[@isabelmatta7907]

Thank you! We have a nonverbal autistic son. I want him to have a voice! Never give up on your dreams! Life is for service! ❤️🙏🏽 God bless!

[@c.v.gonzalez1940]

Thank you for your speech, it gives me lots of hope for my 10-year-old non-verval autistic son. I appreciate your words, and wish you the best throughout your life!

[@danielleisms]

Thank you Elizabeth for giving a voice to non-speakers. Congratulations!

[@kylem8763]

Slowly but surely restoring faith in humanity. This moment is for Elizabeth and only her, and it brings me sorrow to even speak of this person but the “principal” should make a public apology and or never be allowed to work with children in ANY capacity again.

[@Richard_DS]

Thank you Elizabeth Bonker, I walk a similar path, my fingertips are my voice, typing has become my superpower. Beautiful composition, that was a perfectly inspiring speech. I will return to this whenever I doubt myself. Thank you for sharing. 💛

[@chelsabrinkman417]

The autistic mind is working, vibrant, and colorful. Autistic people are “in there” whether they can speak or not. Always treat them as such and assume intelligence. They’re the best people on the planet! ❤️

[@jenniferberger2005]

My son is autistic and I agree so much ❤️

[@vlee3880]

What a beautiful speech! I am so impressed by Elizabeth Bonker’s writing and wisdom, and so pleased that her college and peers selected her to present the valedictorian’s address. I suspect I have ASD myself, and as I seek out Actually Autistic voices, it is so far uncommon to find voices of those who cannot speak. I look so forward to the work you will do in the world Elizabeth! 💕

[@drfjahan]

Beautiful speech. Congrats. Good luck to you in all your endeavors.

[@Lord9Genesis]

I love that Elizabeth is able to communicate so well. I have a 20 year old son who is non-verbal autistic at the moment and this inspires me to find a way to unlock his voice!

[@stephanieromero8124]

Literal tears!!!! Congratulations and job well done not only to you but your family and all those who supported, encouraged, and advocated in your favor. You just made an impact and mark like no other. I’m sure one of the many and many more to come. This speech is everything! Love to you. Can’t wait to see all you do!! -From an autism mama and advocate 🥰

[@krydrajus]

I have a 3 and a half year old little boy who is Non-Verbal and it is something I struggle so much with I cannot even imagine how he feel’s !! I don’t think I have ever cried this emotionally Thank you so much for being My Light a-mist all the darkness I have been lost in you are truly an Amazing person and even tho I do not personally know you I would like you to know that you have very deeply impacted my life my heart n my soul, God bless you and thank you from the deepest reaches of My Very Soul

[@2live4give]

Don't forget that you too are providing a great service in helping expose your little boy to the potential within him. I say a pray for people who work on discoveries to aide neurodivergent people. I pray for you a special person taking care of your child. Make time for selfcare precious soul. A cosmic hug.

[@herrcobblermachen]

Preach it. This really makes me stop, and evaluate if Im listening hard enough, if Im trying hard enough to hear. Deep appreciation to Elizabeth for the voice she's given to so many. Indeed, Fiat Lux

[@DasBarbar]

‘To serve as a habit of mind.’ What a perfect speech.

[@Entropic_Variable]

Congratulations Elizabeth! I found your speech on the NPR News Blog. Thank you very much for your wonderful wise words, for undertaking the vital work that you’re doing, and especially for reminding us all that hope really does spring eternal so long as we continue to care for each other. Life truly is for service, and the world is so lucky to have such a beautiful shining example and inspiration in you! 🙂 🙏 💜

[@michaelmoyer1647]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnaUZ4ljjKl9fKM This is Elizabeth’s mom giving a Ted talk on behalf of her daughter. She references a woman by the name of Soma Mukhopadhyay who “taught” Elizabeth how to speak using a method called RPM. This method is not evidence based. To summarize, it’s basically the partner doing all of the “talking/communicating”. I don’t share this to be rude or mean. I don’t share this because I have no heart. I share this because this is giving families with a child with autism and who is nonverbal and false sense of hope for something that is not attainable. People with autism are on a wide spectrum with varying abilities. They all communicate whether it be non verbal or verbal. We can improve the lives of these individuals, but not by praising the lies of those who concocting a blatant lie to tear at our hearts. I welcome any responses or questions or disagreements. Please just do your research before attacking my reply.

[@krystalriley10]

1 minute in and I want to cry. I’m so happy that technology has opened up this beautiful persons world and can help them communicate. Thank you

[@hk3967]

I have a 3.5 year old daughter who is also on the Autism Spectrum Disorder and is non-verbal! This speech is made me cry! God Bless this young lady!

[@rolly0423]

Thanks! I am almost 60 years old and you have motivated me in a way have have never crossed! I feel born a new! Again thank you

[@bryanchandler3486]

:) sounds like from your username you communicate with music

[@lilmoo2222]

Outstanding. Life is for service. Each and every person is worthy of kindness. Be the light.

[@nathanjoerndt5021]

Fiat lux let there be light!!!

[@michaelmoyer1647]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnaUZ4ljjKl9fKM This is Elizabeth’s mom giving a Ted talk on behalf of her daughter. She references a woman by the name of Soma Mukhopadhyay who “taught” Elizabeth how to speak using a method called RPM. This method is not evidence based. To summarize, it’s basically the partner doing all of the “talking/communicating”. I don’t share this to be rude or mean. I don’t share this because I have no heart. I share this because this is giving families with a child with autism and who is nonverbal and false sense of hope for something that is not attainable. People with autism are on a wide spectrum with varying abilities. They all communicate whether it be non verbal or verbal. We can improve the lives of these individuals, but not by praising the lies of those who concocting a blatant lie to tear at our hearts. I welcome any responses or questions or disagreements. Please just do your research before attacking my reply.

[@gimmecoffee2631]

Congratulations Elizabeth! I am a mother of 3 children, two aged 3 and 6 with minimally speaking autism. Your speech brought me and my husband to tears. We too celebrate the tiny victories everyday. Thank you for delivering your message of strength and hope and call for service. It inspired me so much.

[@n6a6me6jebus]

Damn Elizabeth you made me cry ty you are one awesome girl

[@jburchel]

Such a beautiful speech. My favorite commencement speech I've ever heard. What a powerful voice she has too.

[@zachdelkus]

As a teacher who works with non verbal students, this was unbelievably inspirational. Thank you.

[@Kimock7Autism]

Thank you, Elizabeth! Your message to humanity is to be applauded and admired. You are an inspiration.

[@anomakulathunga2345]

What a great young woman. So proud of you Elizabeth. You are an inspiration to all youngsters in the world ❤️

[@fatimamolas1584]

My son has autism and limited speech thank you ❤

[@jnakka1]

You are an inspiration. Congratulations and God bless as you pursue your dreams. The sky is the limit. May you continue to soar!

[@emaguire5917]

Elizabeth Bonker, YOU are truly amazing and an inspiration TO ALL, not just those who are non-verbal!! AND YOUR PRINCIPAL ............. what a DISGRACE to ALL OF HUMANITY. He should be ashamed of himself. Probably won't, though, because he's too ignorant to know any better. What a TOTAL disgrace he is.

[@SeanKellyPastor]

absolutely beautiful and deeply inspiring, I'm a dad of an autistic, thank you for the encouraging message

[@Burgie86]

Wow.. well done Elizabeth! Well done Rollins College! In this difficult time around the world and here at home this was a wonderful ‘light’ of inspiration I really needed right now. Thank you

[@lil105tube]

Congratulations to you Elizabeth ! What device do u have

[@mmut8602]

Elizabeth, my son (who is learning S2C at 27) had a lesson on your accomplishments as his S2C session. I know this is very belated, but CONGRATULATIONS! Also, thank you. Thank you for being The Light. Thank you for using your words to open up doors for others who are learning S2C! Respect and hugs from a grateful mom.

[@msorani6139]

I just did that lesson with my speller! Amazing!

[@1m0nik1]

Congratulations Elizabeth!! As a mother with a son with autism Elizabeth 's speech gives me so much hope for my son. I don't know if my son will be able to attend college, he will be a senior next school year! Elizabeth I wish you the best in life 💕💕💕💕

[@Ynga1121]

I am also autistic. So called high functioning. I struggle everyday with finding the right, the appropriate and the acceptable words. My husband is leaving me because of it. My mother left me in a park as a teen because of it. My life has been extraordinarily difficult in ways that are hard for many to imagine. I posted this on my Facebook for all my haters. You didn’t just win one for yourself. You won one for all of us. I am so appreciative your voice was heard. I don’t know you and I love you. Wherever you go. Whatever you do. I wish for you success, acceptance and comfort. Bless you.

[@bethlikesstuff_]

So beautiful… I’m crying but I’m watching for the 4th time…

[@juanitajohnson3194]

Thank you GOD for this beautiful soul for being a light in this dark world. Life is for SERVICE, AMEN.

[@krystalriley10]

This is so powerful what an amazing speech to give to your fellow classmates and thank you for allowing us you tubers to listen to this! How amazing. And yes, I’m tearing up typing this.

[@kap79]

I am glad to see our society helping those less fortunate in powerful and meaningful ways, and I hope she fulfills her dream of helping others autistics. Moving speech.

[@tonyabattistoni6787]

Thank you Elizabeth for such an inspiring speech. I am showing this tomorrow in my class. My students are all on the spectrum and some have a harder time communicating than others. I want them to know they have a voice and they are valued.

[@wickedprotos1937]

Bless her and I wish her a wonderful future!!!!!

[@kendrahoyt]

CONGRATULATIONS Elizabeth‼️ YOUR story, YOUR speech, and YOUR courage inspire my soul! YOU ARE FABULOUSLY amazing and a beautiful soul!! May we ALL learn to see OURSELVES and the WORLD through YOUR eyes! I am the proud MOM of a boy living with Autism and I work hard every day to support his ability to THRIVE forward in THIS WAY! AUTISM is YOUR SUPERPOWER!! BLESS YOU!

[@jenniferramos1322]

Hearing her speech I felt like a huge weight fell down, my teachers told my mother that I had a learning disability. I struggled a lot with my school subjects especially math, now that I'm older and in college I struggle less.... I started college in 2014 and still continuing my education I just want to make my parents happy of me that I will be graduating soon

[@pattyvasquez7140]

Congratulations Elizabeth! My son is 22 years old with Autism non verbal. Your speech is very touching I couldn't stop crying. God bless you. So proud of you. ❤️

[@MaxiBela]

WOW, amazing! Congratulations to this nice speach, Elizabeth! I Wish you all the best in the future! Greetings from Budapest, Hungary, Europe! ;-)

[@ej32484]

Her strength is amazing!!Inspirational!! Congratulations Elizabeth on your achievement!!!

[@anag6877]

Crying!!! This was so beautiful!!!! What an amazing college and an outstanding young lady! As a mom to an autistic child myself, we are SO PROUD! 💐

[@rositaelvirez2821]

🙏🏽♥️🧩 God Bless You Elizabeth! God Bless the teachers, staff, fellow classmates and therapists who help our children grow. 🧩♥️🙏🏽🎓 Life is for service. Thank you Elizabeth.

[@maryellengollnick3930]

Thank you for helping me rethink nonverbal and embrace non speaking.

[@timlonghurst6438]

Beautiful. Challenging. Heartbreaking. Uplifting. Inspiring. “Life is for Service”.

[@dirtyd757]

This makes me smile. My son is 5 and he is nonverbal.

[@audreydayton7042]

This is so beautiful!! I graduated this semester too (different schools) and feel compelled to follow this valedictorian's inspirational advice.

[@WeirdBarbiesBoyfriend]

This hit my soul. I want to cry...my God...how beautiful. Profound, moving and such an inspiration. Let us all be a light 🙏🏼🕯

[@beestar6964]

Deeply touching and emotional. Elizabeth Bonker is incredible and inspirational!

[@RonRicho]

Watch this and share with everyone you know.

[@justinmermann5103]

This brought tears to my eyes, as a person who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and as a college graduate come 2024. I know now if I put my mind to things then those things can be achieved, thanks for the inspiration, Elizabeth!!!!!!!

[@kimwaldele5858]

Dear Elizabeth, God bless you❣ What an outstanding speech. Congratulations 🎉🌺

[@EvotrekORIGINAL]

Wow. What an amazing human being. Thank God for people like her.

[@krissalouvae7513]

Elizabeth, I just looked this video up after reading about you on the news online. Thank you so much for this inspirational Valedictorian Speech! You are amazing, not only because of what you've overcome, which is of course a huge accomplishment, but because of the wonderful person you are, your generous heart and spirit. Congratulations on graduating as Valedictorian! And congratulations to your fellow Valedictorians and your whole graduating class. All the best to you for your future. 🌟👍💙🌟

[@jessewise5686]

Wow! I am blown away. What an important message to spread. Elizabeth, you are a fantastic example to all individuals across the world, especially for the fellow folks that struggle with communication. I have full faith we will all hear of your name in the near future as you go into the world and serve. Congratulations!

[@neshamamousseau644]

So powerful. Congratulations. You are a bright light in the world! And an inspiration to so many!

[@lonicalloway4875]

Such inspiration! 💕 Beauty can come from ashes when people come together in a beautiful way in service to one another.

[@larryweg]

WOW - A powerful speech. You used your inability to speak - to make yourself heard - Life is for Service. Thank You Ms. Bonker

[@sirswayze5288]

Absolutely incredible! What a beautiful light in this world

[@joanmarieblessington624]

Beautiful "words" and thoughts of encouragement. An outstanding leader!

[@jackiekeel3558]

Absolutely amazing 👏!!!! Congratulations! My nephew is autistic and this makes cry tears of joy 😊.

[@jasonpayne1240]

😢That was absolutely beautiful. “Life is for service.”

[@trudysnyder905]

Thank you Elizabeth! We just started our son Riley who turned 18 in December on spell to communicate. He is already making great strides and I look forward to hearing everything he has to say! He deserves it and he's earned it! Congratulations to you on your valedictorian!

[@maribelgracia5976]

What an inspiration Elizabeth. Beautiful speech! Wishing you the best of luck. God bless you 🙏🏼

[@onemajorhottie]

That is the most beautiful speech by a Valedictorian I've ever heard. I don't know Elizabeth but I'm proud of her for breaking the barriers and moving forward. She is an inspiration. I'm going to carry in my wallet now a slip of paper that says "Life is for Service." Every time I see it I will be reminded of my purpose and of Elizabeth Bonker.

[@naoma8598]

Congratulations to Elizabeth and all ⭐️Thank you soooo much for sharing this. Her speech is so encouraging and inspiring.

[@kimstube7244]

Great speech! Powerful message! An inspiration for everyone a full and fulfilling life. Thank you, Elizabeth. ❤️

[@lauralampe1664]

Elizabeth, I was so moved by your speech. You go girl and be the light!

[@Oldbutnotout]

We are not worthy to be the benefit of her spirit. What an amazing young woman. I am putting a note in my wallet. Life is for Service ❤️

[@MarcoPolo-je5ej]

Beautiful. Articulate. Deep. Well done indeed.

[@gregrandallbtsr03]

Thank you so much for your inspiring words. May we all do more than hear you, may we follow in your example and serve.

[@hammedadebisi602]

Ms. Elizabeth, your speech was so powerful which called us higher to be of a service, as it is truly true, "Life is a Service". Continue to inspire us before you expire. Have a great success in this life. Congrats👏🎉

[@LouisCarterChange]

Absolutely OUTSTANDING and a MUST SEE. This speech MUST be heard in its entirety and shared around the world. Brought tears of joy and delight of her powerful mind AND her call out to the world of her dream!! Please all, this is a must-watch!

[@MerT-cd8fn]

Congratulations Elizabeth!!! 🥳🎊 Absolutely beautiful speech! Thank you for your strength and encouragement!!!💯🤩😘 💗💘💗

[@KupkakeKrafts]

What an amazing speech! What a great example to be set as well. Thank you for sharing your words, never giving up on yourself, and using that energy to tell others to do more good.

[@powerlawyerscoke6348]

This is the Most Powerful Best Speech ever !!!! what a message to all those who box Exclude individual s whom don’t have a voice , What a inspiration to all YES!!!!!!! Tears of Joy , freedom , and pride You are the example Real Hero all could follow and hats off to all Asd Stars ... only just the beginnings Blast off !!!

[@lindafarris7363]

Thank you! How wonderful to hear your words!

[@ninjoshday]

What a beautiful speech! I'm so glad Elizabeth was able to find a way to share it

[@firemaiden]

Thank you Elizabeth for your wonderful speech and your inspiring words.

[@michellemercurio]

Incredible. Thank you for your voice.

[@manganese333]

What a wise and inspiring speech. Much respect for this human being. She’s amazing! 👏👏👏

[@AnastasiaLipske]

Truly remarkable! What a blessing and inspiration Elizabeth is!

[@khylec4647]

What an amazing person and so inspirational how she has overcome. Brings so much hope for my own autistic son.

[@HeatherHale]

Beautiful. Just beautiful. Inspires me to want be a Professor at Rollins College because this is exactly the kind of academic community we should be encouraging and supporting: one that not only helps students find their voices (such a critical part of maturation at all our stages) but also empowers students with the tools and the platforms to magnify their reach. Time, space and respect. Exponentially expanding all our horizons from students, faculty and staff and alumni through to family, friends and even strangers on the Internet to explore and consider other mindsets and worldviews to make the world a kinder place for humanity. Just beautiful.

[@tigranadamov9740]

Congratulations Elizabeth! You are so inspirational!

[@corinnedelaney1016]

this was deeply moving. congratulations to Elizabeth and her classmates.

[@davekramer4266]

She is a Prime example that ONLY YOU can hold you Back, OR Progress Ahead, like her..💯😘

[@dangeraux1]

As a mom of a beautiful 15 year old daughter who is non verbal autistic this gives me hope and I will be doing everything that is necessary to have my Queen succeed! Whatever it takes!. Congratulations to you and your mom!

[@darlenewhite6021]

This is the most inspiring speech I’ve ever heard ! Thank you for sharing your beautiful voice.

[@chardenner3147]

Oh my gosh, so inspiring! I'm on the verge of tears. Loved this so much!!

[@KritikalHit]

Thank you so much.

[@InfiniteSoul]

Thank you Elizabeth for such a powerful message! 🙏🏽💙

[@jaydupree7419]

Your speech is inspiring, it could not have been any better. Thank you, and good luck in your future pursuits.

[@HeatherC747]

This is so unbelievably beautiful, I’m sobbing. What a wise woman with an incredible message.