SCS Commencement Speakers: The MRSD Hat Trick

At the close of every academic year, the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science (SCS) hosts a special commencement ceremony to honor its graduating master’s students. While the event is always a celebration of academic achievement and innovation, a new tradition has emerged over the past three years that highlights the voices of students themselves: the selection of a student speaker.

In a remarkable trend, all three of the student speakers so far have hailed from the Master of Science in Robotic Systems Development (MRSD) program — a testament to the program’s emphasis on leadership, communication, and interdisciplinary excellence.

• 2023: Hardik Singh delivered a heartfelt address that reflected on the power of perseverance and the importance of community in navigating the challenges of graduate school. His speech resonated with many for its authenticity and optimism, underscoring that his fellow graduates were uniquely equipped to shape the world ahead. 
• 2024: Shivam Tripathy inspired the audience with a forward-looking message about the role of robotics in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future. His words highlighted the responsibility that technologists carry in building ethical and impactful systems.
• 2025: Leo Mouta, this year’s speaker, delivered an address celebrating gratitude, potential, and the shared journey of the graduating class, reflecting on the rigor of CMU, the challenges of today’s job market, and the unshakable value of what they learned together. His speech underscored the power of community, perseverance, and embracing daunting goals as the true spirit of commencement.

The MRSD program has consistently produced graduates who are not only engineers but also storytellers, visionaries, and community leaders. The selection of MRSD students as commencement speakers three years in a row underscores the program’s unique ability to cultivate well-rounded professionals. As the program grows in reputation and impact, its students are proving that the future of robotics is not just about machines — it’s about the people who build them, particularly those who lead with empathy, inspiring others along the way.

Alumni know the rigor and richness of the MRSD experience. These student speakers reflect that shared journey and remind us that the MRSD voice resonates across CMU and beyond. We’re proud of Hardik, Shivam, and Leo — and of all our alumni who continue to lead, inspire, and innovate.