OSU Commencement Keynote Speech Raises Controversy over Bitcoin Mention

Ohio State University's 2024 Spring Commencement ceremony took an unexpected turn when keynote speaker Chris Pan, founder of MyIntent, faced a chorus of boos after discussing Bitcoin in his address to over 12,000 graduates and their families. Pan's speech, which included awkward moments such as leading the audience in sing-alongs and a magic trick involving turning quarters into a Bitcoin, was met with a negative reaction from the crowd despite his attempt to highlight Bitcoin's decentralized nature and the recent launch of Bitcoin ETFs.

Ohio State University Commencement Keynote Speech Sparks Controversy over Bitcoin

Columbus, Ohio - Ohio State University's 2024 Spring Commencement took an unexpected turn when keynote speaker Chris Pan, a 1999 OSU alum and founder of the online jewelry retailer MyIntent, faced a chorus of boos after discussing Bitcoin in his address to over 12,000 graduates and their families.

Pan's speech, which deviated from the typical commencement address, included an unanticipated discussion of cryptocurrency, a topic that elicited a visceral reaction from the audience. As he broached the subject of Bitcoin, a decentralized digital currency, boos reverberated throughout the stadium, signifying the audience's disapproval.

Undeterred, Pan pressed on, expounding on the decentralized nature of Bitcoin and its potential resistance to government manipulation. He also addressed the recent launch of Bitcoin ETFs, claiming that this development mitigated concerns about fraud and hacks associated with cryptocurrency exchanges.

Throughout his speech, Pan engaged in various unconventional tactics, including leading the audience in a sing-along and performing a magic trick that seemingly transformed quarters into a Bitcoin. He also acknowledged the polarizing nature of his discussion, encouraging the graduates to approach the topic with an open mind.

The university declined to comment on the Bitcoin reference, emphasizing that they do not approve speakers' speeches before the ceremony. However, in a LinkedIn post cited by the Columbus Dispatch, Pan revealed that he had employed "AI (Ayahuasca Intelligence)" to assist in crafting the address, aiming for something "extra heartfelt" in challenging times.

Pan's candid admission about using the psychedelic substance ayahuasca to aid in his speech's composition further fueled the controversy. Some criticized his approach as inappropriate for the occasion, while others defended his right to express his personal experiences.

The incident has sparked a debate about the appropriateness of discussing polarizing topics like cryptocurrency at graduation ceremonies. While some argue that Pan's speech offered valuable insights, others contend that it was an inappropriate use of a platform meant to celebrate students' achievements.

Pan's unconventional commencement address has undoubtedly generated a range of reactions, both positive and negative. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the incident will shape future commencement speeches and the boundaries of acceptable discourse at such events.