WORCESTER, Mass. — Nichols College held its undergraduate commencement ceremony at the DCU Center Saturday, where students celebrated making it through the pandemic and other challenges to earn their degrees. 

The school brought in Josh Kraft, president of the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation, to serve as commencement speaker. 

Towards the end of his remarks, Kraft spoke to graduates about the importance of being kind.

He told the story of Kyle Johnson, a North Attleboro teen who took his own life — his family later launched the Kyle Cares Foundation to destigmatize mental health. 

Johnson wrote: "You should try to be nice to everyone, because everyone has a story that will break your heart."

Kraft urged graduates to make the world a better place by reconnecting all of everyone with their passion. 

“Never be afraid to ask 'How can I help?'" Kraft said. "Never be afraid to show your unity with all of humanity, and that will be your true measure of success. Because when you do it, you’ll change the world, not just for yourself, but for all generations for years to come.”

A separate ceremony for Nichols College graduate students was held Thursday on the school's campus. New England Council President James Brett delivered keynote remarks.