Microsoft CFO and Duke alumna Amy Hood returned to campus to deliver the 2026 commencement address for the Class of 2026. In a speech about uncertainty, curiosity, resilience, and community, Hood encouraged graduates to embrace imperfect paths, keep learning, and stay open to unexpected opportunities. “Stay curious when things stop making sense.” Watch highlights from Hood’s address to Duke graduates and their families at Wallace Wade Stadium. CHAPTERS 0:00 Introduction 0:44 Congratulations to the Class of 2026 2:31 The myth of the perfect career path 5:02 The Alcatraz internship story 6:13 Accepting the Microsoft job 7:27 “Your next step doesn’t have to be perfect” 9:16 What Duke really taught her 10:55 Graduating into uncertainty 12:30 “There aren’t many one-way doors” 13:29 Three lessons for graduates 14:07 Community and lifelong friendships 15:59 “Show up. Be in the room.” 17:19 Her mother’s advice 18:07 “The mess is where all the good stuff happens” 18:36 Final message to gradu...