Bravo Zulu to new horizons: Capt. Williams salutes AUM’s fall class of 2025

AUM alumnus and retired Navy Capt. Steven C. Williams (’96) addressed the university’s fall class of 2025 at commencement Saturday, closing his speech with a resounding “Bravo Zulu,” one of three central themes.

The Navy phrase, meaning “well done,” was an inspiring conclusion to Williams’ address, which reflected on his life journey, his time at AUM, and his Navy career. AUM celebrated more than 700 graduates during two commencement ceremonies.

“Every time I visit AUM, I am filled with a sense of great pride in being an alumnus of this fine institution,” he told graduates. “I’m delighted when I have the opportunity to meet with students and professors, and after every visit, I am filled with an unwavering confidence in our future.”

Williams then shared a relatable moment with graduates about preparing his speech: he had researched online for tips on delivering an effective commencement address.

“My online research advised me that I should be authentic, relevant, and inspirational, and that I should perhaps use a mix of personal stories and relevant themes to connect with the audience,” he said. “I think this was wonderful guidance from an AI search engine. However, this is not an AI-generated talk.”

He added that when teaching high school students, he emphasizes the importance of using one’s own voice over technology.

“There are a few other things that technology can’t replace, like the advice from an old friend who told me: speak from the heart and keep it short today,” Williams said.

Williams then outlined the three key themes of his address: Bravo Zulu, the journey, and tomorrow. Reflecting on his path, he shared how his studies at AUM — including political science courses under Dr. Jim Nathan — prepared him for a career spanning military command, senior civilian roles across multiple federal agencies, and international diplomacy.

“I served several years in the Navy, but the tools that I needed to succeed … had largely been provided by my professors at AUM: the ability for critical thought, to analyze another nation’s positions and agenda, and the ability to listen and comprehend the framework that drove their goals. Without realizing it as a student, these were among the tools added to my portfolio by the time I received my diploma,” he said.

Williams encouraged graduates to look forward, pursue new goals, give back to their communities, and continue building on their accomplishments.

“AUM became my lighthouse, a beacon of security, knowledge, hope, and acceptance,” he said. “Today, you are living both the conclusion of one AUM journey and the beginning of another.”

Closing with heartfelt holiday wishes, Williams urged graduates to celebrate and reflect while carrying the lessons of AUM into the next chapter of their lives.

“Bravo Zulu, graduates, job well done,” he said.