Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien Celebrates UEI College Graduates as “The Future of Phoenix”

On Friday, October 3rd, the City of Phoenix’s Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien delivered an uplifting keynote address at the UEI College Phoenix graduation ceremony, commending the Class of 2025 for their perseverance, purpose, and commitment to careers that strengthen the community.

Speaking before an audience of more than 2,000 guests and 300 graduates, Vice Mayor O’Brien praised the diversity of professions represented among UEI’s graduates — from healthcare and trades to business and beyond — emphasizing how each plays a vital role in the city’s growth and well-being.

“I see something powerful,” O’Brien told the graduates. “I see the future of Phoenix — the backbone of our community — with individuals who chose a path that serves others and strengthens our entire city.”

She highlighted the importance of hands-on learning, encouraging graduates to embrace the real-world experience that defines their training.

“Some of you discovered that hands-on training is where you truly thrive,” she said. “Whatever brought you to UEI College, you made a choice to persevere, to grow, to prepare yourselves for careers our community needs.”

Vice Mayor O’Brien also celebrated the college’s commitment to experiential education, noting, “You chose UEI because you learn best by doing — you can’t learn it from the sidelines.”

Her message concluded with a forward-looking challenge to the Class of 2025:

“Your best work is still ahead!”

The Vice Mayor’s remarks left graduates inspired and proud — a fitting tribute to a class that will soon join the city’s essential workforce, helping keep Phoenix strong, skilled, and thriving.

Congratulations to the UEI College Phoenix Class of 2025!