Lift Off: From the Classroom to the Stars

The Harvard University graduation speech that has inspired millions around the world- a groundbreaking rallying call about education, race, and the true nature of equality

Donovan Livingston is dedicated to sparking the joy of learning in young minds, and when he took the podium to give the convocation address at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, he shared a powerful message of hope and hard truths. In emotionally charged spoken word, Donovan declares that education can only become an equalizer if we first acknowledge the inequality and racial divides holding back America’s future.

Years ago, his seventh-grade teacher saw a rambunctious child, and instead of silencing him, encouraged his voice, telling him that our stories are ladders that enable us to touch the stars. Donovan now continues the work of helping every young person reach their celestial potential. He calls on us all to lift our voices on behalf of every child, as their brighter futures can light up our own.

Donovan’s speech has touched the lives of millions, and now for the first time his words are bound between book covers, to be shared in a beautiful package with graduates and educators today and with generations to come.

Praise for Donovan Livingston

Donovan Livingston gave a powerful speech at the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s convocation. In a spoken-word poem, he shared his struggles in life and urged his fellow graduates to fight inequality and inspire students… . Donovan’s message hit home… . He is part of a rising generation that’s … standing up to some of the biggest challenges in the world today. -Hillary Clinton, from her Teen Vogue essay on What’s RIGHT with America