Marquette University Commencement 2024
Dr. Shital Vora, CEO and co-founder of Global Brigades, served as Commencement speaker for the undergraduate ceremony at Marquette University. The University’s 143rd Commencement was held Saturday, May 11, with 1,586 undergraduates, 758 master’s degree recipients, 437 professional studies graduates and 71 Ph.D. recipients celebrating at Fiserv Forum.
Leadership at Global Brigades
At Global Brigades, Shital is a visionary leader, humanitarian, and trailblazer in global health initiatives. She spearheads the organization’s mission with unparalleled dedication and expertise, empowering an international team of staff to make an impact.
After graduating from Marquette University, Shital's career began as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, where she honed her skills in orthopedics and sports medicine at one of Chicago’s premier orthopedic practices.
During her tenure at Marquette University, Shital founded the inaugural medical brigade club, an initiative that has since grown into a global movement.
Under her guidance, Global Brigades has flourished, with over 600 active groups traversing the globe to deliver essential healthcare and education to underserved communities in Honduras, Panama, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Belize, Greece, and Ghana.
In addition to her exemplary work with Global Brigades, Dr. Vora is a respected member of the Marquette University Health Sciences advisory board. Her contributions to the field have been recognized with prestigious accolades, including Marquette University’s Young Alumnus of the Year in 2009 and Young Alumni of the Year in 2016.
Commencement Address Highlights
During her commencement address, Shital shared, “You know that feeling in your gut? That instinct, that inner voice that guides you through life’s twists and turns? That is your ticket to greatness. Trust it, nurture it, and never ever settle for anything else. Now, I understand this might sound like a traditional Commencement speech spiel to you, but here’s the kicker: it’s the absolute truth. In a world full of distraction and noise, your gut is your most reliable navigator."
She continued, "You have to ignore the naysayers, ignore the doubters and the noise and the static that’s around you. That’s just background noise compared to the symphony of your inner voice. Your inner voice is the conglomeration of your parents, your friends, your mentors, your teachers, your most trusted inner circle. It’s like a colander — all the things that are important stay, and the rest of the distracting things filter out. So why should you listen to it? Because your inner voice knows you better than anyone else ever will.”
Learn more about the history of Global Brigades here on our website.
