Graduates at multiple U.S. universities responded with boos and walkouts during commencement addresses in which speakers discussed artificial intelligence. The reactions occurred at ceremonies from May to June 2025 and reflect reported student concerns about AI's impact on employment, the environment, and social equity.
Specific Incidents
University of Arizona
Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, was met with jeers during his commencement speech on May 17, 2025. He acknowledged student fears about job displacement and urged graduates to shape AI's development.
Stanford University
Google CEO Sundar Pichai was booed when he mentioned AI during his address. Some graduates walked out, carrying signs reading "ICE spies with Google AI" and waving Palestinian flags. Ifdita Hasan, a graduating computer science and AI major, expressed optimism about AI, calling it a tool for learning, and noted that early pessimism is common with new technologies.
University of Central Florida
Real estate executive Gloria Caulfield described AI as "the next industrial revolution" and was booed by graduates.
Middle Tennessee State University
Scott Borchetta, CEO of Big Machine Records, said "AI is rewriting production as we sit here," prompting boos. He responded by calling AI a tool.
Marquette University
Chris Duffey, an Adobe AI evangelist, spoke despite a student petition against his selection.
Glendale Community College
An AI system used to read graduates' names malfunctioned, leading to incorrect name readings and boos from the audience. The college attributed the issue to technical problems.
Student Reactions
Graduates provided specific reasons for their negative responses:
Olivia Malone (University of Arizona) said Schmidt's speech felt "disrespectful" and like "a big advertisement."
Sami Wargo (Marquette University) noted that most classes banned AI use, yet job descriptions require AI collaboration. She reported applying for about 30 jobs without success.
Maggie Simmons (University of Denver) said AI hurts the planet and Black communities.
Kareen Gill (American University) reported fewer internships and entry-level positions due to AI.
Polling Data
Multiple polls indicate negative attitudes toward AI among young adults:
- A 2025 Harvard Kennedy School poll found approximately 70% of college students view AI as a threat to job prospects.
- A Quinnipiac University poll reported that 81% of Gen Z respondents believe AI will decrease job opportunities. The poll also found that Americans overall are more concerned about AI, with only 5% of Americans feeling AI development represents their interests.
- A Gallup poll of Gen Z (ages 14-29) showed increasing negative attitudes toward AI, with declining excitement and hopefulness compared to the previous year.
Economic Context
The unemployment rate for college graduates aged 22-27 reached its highest level in 12 years during the period of these events.