🎙️ The Liminal: From GED to JD — Paris Thomas on Overcoming the Odds and Owning the Podium

In this episode, Chase Rigby sits down with Paris Thomas, a former high school dropout turned full-ride law school graduate, who delivered the commencement speech selected by both faculty and peers. Paris shares his remarkable journey from homelessness to higher education, and the moment he stood at the lectern to address his fellow classmates.

📝 Topics Discussed:

• Growing up in poverty, violence, and instability—and finding hope through mentors
• How belief from others sparked the internal fire to pursue education
• Getting accepted to law school with a full-ride scholarship despite the odds
• What it felt like to be selected to deliver the commencement speech
• The process of crafting a speech that inspires without preaching
• Why storytelling and vulnerability are essential in any great speech
• The power of sharing scars—and how it builds connection and credibility

📌 Episode Highlights:

• [01:29] Paris shares his early life story: loss, incarceration, homelessness, and dropping out
• [03:11] The turning point: meeting mentors, earning his GED, and enrolling in college
• [06:45] Why belief in others is the most powerful gift you can give
• [07:37] The surprise moment Paris found out he was chosen to speak at graduation
• [09:07] How he crafted his speech around the theme of belief—and honoring his mentors
• [12:00] The philosophy behind his storytelling approach and speechwriting process
• [16:14] Using humor and tone shifts to reflect the gravity of the moment
• [19:17] The Tuskegee University story he shared—and why it speaks to seeing people’s potential
• [23:15] The line he hopes people remember (and why it’s more about how they feel)
• [27:02] Advice for anyone preparing to give a commencement speech: be vulnerable, be you

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Aaron High, Director of Engineering at Tassel, joins host Chase Rigby for a behind-the-scenes look at the massive tech overhaul powering Tassel’s future. Together, they dive into the why, what, and how of rewriting a 20-year-old legacy codebase while still serving millions of students—and what that means for the future of commencement.

📝 Topics Discussed:

What “technical debt” really means—and why Tassel had so much of it.

The decision to completely rebuild Tassel’s core architecture from the ground up.

How the engineering team is scaling quickly while improving performance and reliability.

Releasing in “bite-sized” pieces using the Strangler Fig approach.

The real student impact of faster, more reliable graduation tech.

How customer feedback directly shapes the roadmap and product priorities.

The vision behind the new graduate-facing experience and what’s next.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:07:33] Why Tassel needed a full rebuild—and what made that decision necessary.
[00:10:20] Aaron explains “technical debt” in plain terms and how it affects scale.
[00:13:16] Legacy issues: Repetitive code, hardcoded integrations, and brittle foundations.
[00:15:01] Why big-bang releases are out—and incremental rollouts are in.
[00:22:51] How Tassel is renovating the platform while still “living in the house.”
[00:27:06] A deep dive into the brand-new graduate site: faster, accessible, extensible.
[00:29:03] Performance wins: Dropping common operations from 2–3 seconds to 75ms.
[00:32:51] How customer-driven roadmaps are leading to faster, more meaningful releases.
[00:33:50] The human side of software—why every log line represents a real student.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Brenna Brown, Associate Director of University Events at Metropolitan State University of Denver, joins host Chase Rigby to share her expertise in commencement planning. As a power user of Tassel, Brenna has developed numerous strategies to streamline graduation ceremonies, ensuring an organized and memorable experience for students and administrators alike.

📝 Topics Discussed:

• The unique structure of MSU Denver’s commencement, including spring and fall ceremonies.
• How Tassel helps manage key logistics like name announcements, ticketing, and registration.
• The impact of a well-executed ceremony on alumni engagement.
• Key tips for making Tassel work for different universities.
• Challenges of managing commencement at a large venue.
• The role of volunteers and marshals in making the event seamless.
• Brenna’s personal graduation experience and how it shaped her approach.

📌 Episode Highlights:

 [00:01:03] Brenna introduces herself and explains MSU Denver’s event structure.
 [00:02:47] How Tassel has helped automate and simplify commencement planning.
 [00:03:51] The top tips Brenna shared in a recent webinar on using Tassel effectively.
 [00:05:39] The logistical challenges of managing commencement at a large venue.
 [00:08:03] Exploring ways Tassel can improve volunteer coordination and real-time data sharing.
 [00:09:24] Brenna recalls her own chaotic graduation day—arriving late and having her name mispronounced.
 [00:10:17] Full-circle moment: Using Tassel to prevent students from experiencing the same issues she faced.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Adam Gordon, Manager of IT and Media Application Services at Oakland University, joins host Chase Rigby to peel back the curtain and look at commencement behind-the-scenes. They explore how Oakland’s IT team uniquely supports commencement, the challenges of integrating new technology, and the evolving digital trends in higher education ceremonies.

📝 Topics Discussed:

The unique role of IT in Oakland University’s commencement planning and execution.
How early-stage tech integration streamlines the ceremony experience.
The shift from paper-based processes to digital-first commencement solutions.
The challenge of balancing tradition with innovation in higher education.
Unexpected mishaps during graduation and how IT helps keep the event running smoothly.
How Oakland’s in-house IT team enhances efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:01:32] Adam shares his own graduation experience at Oakland University—complete with Game Boys and Michigan’s unpredictable weather.
[00:04:28] How Oakland's IT team begins planning commencement months in advance.
[00:07:13] The advantage of having a dedicated IT team versus outsourcing for event support.
[00:10:45] The impact of integrating technology like GradPass to improve check-in and lineup efficiency.
[00:14:22] The growing shift toward digital-first commencement solutions and the challenges of institutional change.
[00:18:36] How Oakland University’s IT team manages last-minute tech failures and behind-the-scenes chaos.
[00:22:10] Lessons learned from real commencement-day mishaps—including mismatched graduate photos and barcode failures.
[00:26:41] The importance of continuity and institutional knowledge in running a smooth ceremony.
[00:29:57] The benefits of real-time troubleshooting with an in-house IT team.
[00:33:21] Why commencement is Oakland University’s "Super Bowl" and how IT plays a starring role.
[00:37:02] What the future holds for digital transformation in graduation ceremonies.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Stephanie Albach, a key leader in university relations at Utah Valley University, joins host Chase Rigby to discuss how UVU is rethinking commencement to create more meaningful and personalized graduation experiences. They explore how the university embraces family involvement, the logistical challenges of large-scale ceremonies, and how technology is shaping the future of graduation events.

📝 Topics Discussed:

• The unique challenges of organizing commencement for a rapidly growing student body.
• How UVU accommodates non-traditional students and their families in the ceremony.
• The logistics behind large-scale commencements and making them feel personal.
• The role of software and digital tools in streamlining the graduation experience.
• Why commencement is more than just a ceremony—it's a powerful university marketing tool.

📌 Episode Highlights:
[00:14:40] Stephanie reflects on her own graduation and the importance of family presence.
[00:20:05] How UVU allows family members to walk together in the ceremony.
[00:21:50] A powerful story of a family honoring a graduate who passed away before commencement.
[00:26:29] The impact of digital tools, like Tassel, in personalizing the graduation experience.
[00:30:48] Why UVU treats commencement as a marketing and recruitment opportunity.
[00:38:48] Planning for future growth—what UVU’s graduation could look like in 10 years.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Dr. Courtney Hills-McBeth, Chief Academic Officer and Provost at Western Governors University, joins host Chase Rigby to discuss how WGU redefines commencement to serve its unique student body. They explore how the university balances accessibility, affordability, and meaningful celebration to create an experience that resonates with students and their families.

📝 Topics Discussed:

The evolving role of commencement in modern higher education.
How WGU’s commencement model caters to adult learners and first-generation students.
The logistics behind organizing seven nationwide ceremonies per year.
Why commencement is more than just a graduation—it’s a powerful marketing and recruitment tool.
The importance of diverse and inspiring commencement speakers.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:10:08] Dr. McBeth recalls her undergrad graduation and the pride of having her university president as a mentor.
[00:13:41] The emotional impact of standing on stage at her first WGU commencement.
[00:14:49] How WGU students prioritize commencement as a moment to inspire their children.
[00:17:35] The logistics of hosting seven commencements across the country each year.
[00:21:53] Why schools should view commencement as a key engagement and branding opportunity.
[00:22:53] WGU’s scale: Over 50,000 degrees awarded in 2024, with 11,000 attending commencement.
[00:24:53] Data shows students who walk at graduation are 3.5x more likely to engage as alumni.
[00:26:08] The role of student speakers in making commencement personal and impactful.
[00:29:52] The power of keynote speakers who have overcome adversity—like former astronaut José Hernández.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Deepthi Peri, Tassel’s lead technologist, joins host Chase Rigby to explore how AI-powered name pronunciation is transforming the graduation experience. They discuss the impact of mispronounced names, the importance of inclusivity for international students, and how AI is solving a long-standing commencement challenge.

📝 Topics Discussed:

Why correct name pronunciation is a critical moment for graduates.
The evolution from live name readers to AI-powered accuracy.
How Tassel’s system ensures names are pronounced correctly before the ceremony.
The importance of name pronunciation for ethnic and international students.
Addressing privacy, security, and concerns about AI in commencement logistics.

📌 Episode Highlights:
[00:05:07] Deepthi shares why she never got to walk at either of her own graduations.
[00:07:14] The emotional impact of mispronouncing a graduate’s name.
[00:10:49] How AI models are trained to accurately pronounce names from diverse backgrounds.
[00:18:16] Overcoming traditional resistance to AI-enhanced commencement experiences.
[00:21:09] New research shows 70% of students highly value correct name pronunciation.
[00:29:01] The importance of inclusivity: Nearly 100% of Indian American respondents rated correct pronunciation as critical.
[00:34:22] How AI-driven name announcements can streamline and shorten ceremonies.
[00:40:23] Addressing privacy and security concerns in AI-powered commencement tools.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Nicole Ojeda, a higher education expert and first-generation college graduate, joins host Chase Rigby to discuss the power of inclusive graduation ceremonies. They explore how schools can balance tradition with innovation, shorten ceremonies without losing their impact, and make commencements more meaningful for every student and their family.

📝 Topics Discussed:

The unique challenges and triumphs of first-generation college graduates.
How schools can embrace affinity ceremonies to celebrate student diversity.
Strategies for shortening lengthy ceremonies without sacrificing tradition.
Why modern tools can reduce the complexity of commencement logistics.
The shifting role of graduation as both a celebration and a marketing opportunity.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:01:37] Nicole reflects on her own graduations and the pride of her large Latinx family.
[00:04:52] The value of affinity ceremonies and their growing popularity.
[00:08:03] How innovative tools, like AI name pronunciation, can streamline ceremonies.
[00:12:44] The benefits of moving from paper to digital tools in commencement planning.
[00:18:13] Why graduation is evolving into a key marketing moment for universities.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Taylor DeGiovanni, Associate Director of Commencement, Student Ceremonies, and Engagement at UC Santa Cruz, joins host Chase Rigby to discuss the intricacies of graduation planning. From managing 13 unique ceremonies to overcoming logistical challenges, Taylor shares her journey of balancing tradition with innovation in creating memorable experiences for students and families.

📝 Topics Discussed:

The challenges of hosting commencement events in Santa Cruz's limited infrastructure.
Transitioning commencement responsibilities across departments and what it means for alumni engagement.
Balancing tradition and innovation in post-pandemic ceremonies.
Streamlining the student experience through registration systems, regalia ordering, and communication tools.
How student participation impacts long-term alumni engagement.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:01:21] Taylor recounts her unique undergraduate graduation experience, delayed by a wildfire.
[00:03:57] The evolution of UC Santa Cruz’s "Slug Crossing" ceremony during the pandemic.
[00:06:23] Managing 13 commencement events annually, including residential college and cultural celebrations.
[00:11:32] Why some students opt out of commencement and the efforts to encourage participation.
[00:17:11] Using registration systems to simplify alumni engagement and streamline communication.
[00:21:26] The most common challenges for students and coordinators in the graduation process.
[00:27:12] Taylor’s vision for balancing growth and tradition in the next five years.
[00:33:24] Advice for first-time ceremony coordinators: build a network, breathe, and know that everything will work out.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com

Dan Frierdich, a veteran commencement planner with over a decade of experience at St. Louis University and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, joins host Chase Rigby to discuss the transformation of cap and gown traditions. They dive into how universities can move beyond outdated processes to create a seamless, student-focused graduation experience. 

📝 Topics Discussed:

-The inefficiencies and hidden costs of traditional cap and gown systems.
-Why universities rely on bookstore distribution models—and how they’re evolving.
-The benefits of integrating regalia ordering into the student registration process.
-How personalization enhances the graduation experience for students and families.
-Why graduation is shifting from a formal tradition to a major marketing opportunity.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:01:19] Dan shares memories of his own graduation, including name mispronunciations.
[00:06:53] Comparing decentralized and centralized approaches to commencement planning.
[00:16:51] Why modern students expect a streamlined, e-commerce-like experience.
[00:22:35] Launching a new integration for hassle-free cap and gown ordering.
[00:25:56] Overcoming resistance to change and envisioning the future of graduations.

Have a guest recommendation? Show notes? Send us a note.

This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

Join the movement to make every graduation memorable for students, families, and administrators alike.

Visit tassel.com to learn more and see how we’re redefining the future of commencements.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit heytassel.substack.com