May 2008

Purdue graduates urged to reach for stars while charting futures

Lift after commencement
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Córdova spoke to candidates during four spring commencement ceremonies taking place this weekend (May 9-11) in Elliott Hall of Music.

More than 5,940 students were to receive degrees during ceremonies shown live via Webcast at mms://video.dis.purdue.edu/
graduation

"You are the graduates who will transform lives through teaching and scholarship, research and invention, engagement and leadership," Córdova said. "You will transform the way we learn, and the way we live and work."

Córdova told graduates that while they have received a valuable education, there will continue to be lessons to learn.

"One of my favorite poets, Edna St. Vincent Millay, noted: 'I am glad that I paid so little attention to good advice; had I abided by it, I might have been saved from some of my most valuable mistakes.' You will learn from your mistakes as you go through life, but hopefully your Purdue education has prepared you to keep those hard lessons to a minimum."

Sorority sisters celebrate
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Córdova used the words a graduating student had written in the student newspaper to inspire the group.

"He started his farewell to your class with this quote: 'Just because you can't see a star doesn't mean you can't reach for it,'" Córdova said.

The president echoed that message by encouraging graduates to continue to ask questions, join activities and have fun. She also urged them to return to campus and share their joys and help mentor a new generation of students.

"This day is just the beginning; that's why it's called commencement," Córdova said. "We've taught you much, but we've left you much more to accomplish. You will face some of the world's largest challenges ever, including the quest for global peace and understanding. Your leadership in education and cooperation have the power to transform the world, and your research and engagement can address global health needs, poverty, environmental degradation and the challenge to find cleaner, cheaper sources of energy.

"Your outstanding Purdue education, in short, has prepared you to pursue not only your own dreams, but also to advance the hopes and dreams of people everywhere. It is our hope that your Purdue experience has taught you a love for service. Your lives will be enriched by helping others."

Writer: Christy Jones, (765) 494-1089, christyjones@purdue.edu

Source: France A. Córdova, president@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

PHOTO CAPTION:
Emily Walker of Indianapolis is hoisted aloft for family photos by fiance Grant Dobson after earning her bachelor's degree Saturday (May 10) from Purdue University's College of Consumer and Family Sciences. A total of four commencement ceremonies were taking place on the West Lafayette, Ind., campus this weekend, with more than 5,900 degrees being awarded. (Purdue News Service photo/Dave Umberger)

A publication-quality file photo is available at http://news.uns.purdue.edu/images/+2008/purdue-commence08.jpg

PHOTO CAPTION:
Members of Purdue University's Delta Zeta sorority toss their mortar boards in celebration of earning their degrees Saturday (May 10) from the College of Consumer and Family Sciences. A total of four commencement ceremonies were taking place on the West Lafayette, Ind., campus this weekend, with more than 5,900 degrees being awarded. (Purdue News Service photo/Dave Umberger)

A publication-quality file photo is available at http://news.uns.purdue.edu/images/+2008/DZhats.jpg

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