Commencement speaker stresses civic duty

bout 7,000 people were on hand for the University's 150th Commencement on May 14, which took place on the Eastman Quadrangle under threatening cold, gray skies that broke for the sun only when the students stood up for the conferring of degrees.

Mark Schneider, director of the Peace Corps, delivered the Commencement address, stressing the importance of good citizenship and making a difference in the lives of others.

"The spirit of service in this generation is just as strong as any who have come before you," he told graduates. "And it has never been more important."

Discounting critics who say the current generation is more interested in launching their first IPO than in volunteering, Schneider urged students to accept future challenges and make choices based on their knowledge, instinct, and values.

He cited the continuing contrasts between developing and undeveloped nations, noting that despite the existence of 50 million Web sites, most people in the developing world have never used a phone and nearly 3 billion people live on less than $2 a day. Schneider reminded students that 40 years from now they would be judged not by their stock portfolio, but by their example, citizenship, and kept promises. "And when it is all said and done, you will be judged by the ripples of hope you sent forth that made a difference in the lives of others," he said.

During the ceremony Schneider received the inaugural George Eastman Medal, newly created in honor of the Sesquicentennial to recognize individuals who, through outstanding achievement and dedicated service, embody the high ideals for which the University stands.

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