Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks speaks at Skyline High’s virtual graduation in Oakland Unified

Graduates in the Class of 2020 at Skyline High School in Oakland Unified got a big surprise during their virtual graduation ceremony when they heard an inspirational message from guest speaker actor Tom Hanks, who graduated from the school in 1974 and is its most famous alum. This was the first of several virtual graduation ceremonies to be held for Oakland Unified high school seniors over the next two weeks.

“Somewhere out of the fate of every high-schooler, you guys were picked to graduate this year – in the year 2020 – to start off this next chapter of your lives in the face and in the midst of so much change,” Hanks said in his pre-recorded message. “Good luck to you. I’d like to think that just as Skyline High School provided me with a direction and an instinct to follow, the same has happened for you.”

He congratulated the graduates for “having gotten through these years of struggle,” which he predicted would “lead ultimately to the triumph as you pursue your heart’s desire.” Urging them to follow their instincts, he added: “Always understand that you have been chosen by fate to lead the way in whatever our post-pandemic world is going to be. Make it a great one, would you? We’re all relying on you.”

Finally, Hanks proudly let the grads know he is one them, saying: “Let us all be a part of the grand group that is called ‘the alumni of Skyline High School.”