President to graduates: What you've done at Purdue positions you to pursue your passions
Purdue President France A. Córdova (right) congratulates new graduates during the winter commencement ceremonies conducted Dec. 18 in Elliott Hall of Music. (Purdue University photo/Mark Simons)
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue President France A. Córdova on Sunday (Dec. 18) encouraged the university's newest graduates to be bold and pursue their passions.
Córdova offered congratulations - and diplomas - to about 2,600 graduates during commencement ceremonies in Purdue's Elliott Hall of Music.
"As you sit here today, waiting for your turn to walk across this stage, it is impossible for you to imagine the twists that your career path will take," she said during her address. "You will have many choices. I know this because you will have a Purdue degree and the strong reputation and high value that come with it."
Córdova told the graduates that they are about to write the next chapter in their life stories, and she is honored that Purdue has played a prominent role.
"My hope for you is that when you discover your passion, when you know what you want to do above all else, don't let anything hold you back."
Córdova told graduates that in high school she had an interest in science. She was discouraged from pursuing that career path because people could not see a woman in the role of scientist. However, she was undeterred and eventually earned a doctoral degree in physics and became a university department head in astronomy and astrophysics before being named NASA chief scientist. She was the youngest and first female in that role.
She initially questioned whether to uproot her family and take the NASA position but decided to do so because it was a chance to make a difference.
"I hadn't planned on this," she said. "I kept an open mind when the offer came, and I sought advice - and that's my advice to you. Say yes to opportunities. You write the chapters."
Córdova also spoke of the joy of interacting with Purdue students.
"I have enjoyed working with you on student-led policy changes. I have witnessed your generous responses to an earthquake in Haiti and a tsunami in Japan, and your commitment to the Greater Lafayette community," she said. "And like you, I have acquired the latest communication devices and have taken advantage of an increasingly wireless world."
As graduates turn to the next chapter of their personal narratives, they can forge ahead with the assurance of a strong education.
"I have traveled across the United States and on international trips to China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan and India to meet with alumni and form partnerships for Purdue," she said. "I can assure you the reputation of this institution is strong and growing. Wherever you go, you will be proud to be a Boilermaker for the rest of your life."
Writer: Jim Bush, 765-494-2077, jsbush@purdue.edu
Source: France A. Córdova, president@purdue.edu
Related website:
Purdue President France A. Córdova's full commencement address