LTI Joins CMU Community in Celebrating 127th Commencement
"Go forth and innovate" exhorts LTI Director Mona Diab
By Bryan Burtner
Language Technologies Institute students, faculty and staff will participate this week in Carnegie Mellon University's annual Commencement ceremonies, the 127th in the university's history and 38th since the LTI's founding. LTI Director Mona Diab released the following statement to the LTI community for the occasion:
Language Technologies Institute Commencement Message – CMU 2025
Just a few years ago, trying to explain our work in language technologies to friends and family often led to blank stares—now even our grandparents are debating the finer points of ChatGPT. From Alexa to AI tutors, language technologies have become deeply woven into everyday life. And who’s behind these transformative shifts? You are—LTI graduates—driving the change and defining the future.
Our field has evolved from pushing the boundaries of technology to reshaping how humans connect, learn, create, and make sense of the world. What began as building better systems for understanding human and computer languages has grown into an ambitious mission: bridging AI with every domain of human experience.
Our Ph.D. program continues to produce world-class researchers, scholars, and educators who shape the direction of the field. The Master of Language Technologies (MLT) prepares students to lead research in academia and industry. Our professional master’s programs—MIIS, MCDS, and MS AII—blend rigorous coursework, real-world experience, and collaborative projects to launch impactful careers across sectors. And with our undergraduate Minor, Concentration, and 5th Year Master’s, we’re building a strong foundation for the next generation of trailblazers.
As you step into the next chapter, we’re excited to watch you lead, challenge the status quo, and build futures we haven’t yet imagined. Go forth and innovate. Disrupt wisely. And carry your LTI pedigree with pride.
Congratulations, Class of 2025—now go change the world!!
The schedule of events will be as follows:
Friday, May 9
SCS Masters Diploma Ceremony
11:30am
Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall
LTI Commencement Reception
6:00-9:00pm
Courtyard Pittsburgh University Center
Saturday, May 10
SCS PhD Diploma Ceremony
11:00am
Carnegie Music Hall, Oakland
Sunday, May 11
Main Commencement Ceremony
8:00am
Gesling Stadium
For more information, see the CMU Commencement website.