'Embrace the discomfort in it all' - USWNT head coach Emma Hayes delivers commencement address at Iona University, receives honorary doctorate

USWNT coach Emma Hayes returned to Iona University to serve as the commencement speaker for the graduating class of 2025 - and during the ceremony, was surprised with an honorary doctorate in Human Letters, recognizing her contributions to soccer and leadership.

Hayes, who coached the Iona Gaels women's soccer team from 2003 to 2006, later shared photos of herself in academic regalia holding her doctoral certificate.

“I've said this many times: That my experience here at Iona was one of my greatest, for many reasons,” Hayes said in her commencement keynote over the weekend. “Iona will forever be in all of our hearts and I'm so grateful for everything not just this campus, but this community, has provided.”

Hayes encouraged graduates to take risk, but added that success is non-linear and often starts in moments of discomfort and uncertainty.

“Prepare yourself for the failures ahead… but embrace the discomfort in it all. Nothing can beat human connection and our ability to bring the best out of each other. So, never stop asking questions; curiosity is so underrated. And never stop learning.

“The growth mindset, for me, isn’t just a line in a book somewhere; it’s something that allows us to open all those pathways to keep being the best version of ourselves. And mostly, be kind to each other. You will always get out of this world what you put into it.”

The USWNT are preparing for upcoming international friendlies against China and Jamaica. Hayes announced her 24-player roster for the friendlies on Tuesday.

Since taking over the national team after a trophy-laden career with Chelsea FC Women, Hayes has been working to build on their Olympic gold medal success while preparing for the 2027 Women's World Cup.

Hayes and the national team will play China on May 31 at Allianz Field in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and Jamaica on June 3 at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri.