University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign alumnus Larry Gies returned to campus on Saturday, May 11, 2019 to serve at the 2019 Commencement speaker.

He challenged Illini graduates to find their why: "Finding your 'why' is critical. It’s the ability to connect the dots between what you do each and every day and a higher purpose. Something beyond going to work or doing a job. Our why is what drives us, inspires others and allows us to persevere in those difficult moments. To put it simply, when you find your why, you love what you do!"

Larry is the founder, President and CEO of Madison Industries, one of the largest and most successful privately held companies in the world

To read Larry Gies' entire graduation speech, visit:   / 2143884978993568  .