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The Rensselaer 199th Commencement Celebrates Nearly 1,100 Graduates
In her speech, Clinton challenged students to use their technological and scientific degrees for themselves, the nation, and the world. She also urged students not to turn their backs on objective science in the face of political or other world pressures. "We need to be willing to face up to scientific facts and not permit them to be distorted or spun out of proportion," Senator Clinton said. She emphasized the point in quoting her predecessor, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, who said, "Everyone is entitled to his own opinions, but no one is entitled to his own facts." In her remarks, Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson honored Senator Clinton for "embracing challenges and change, and for advocating for those who have no voice." "Reach for the Stars," President Jackson Advises Class of 2005 In her address to the Class of 2005, President Jackson celebrated the "many stories of global citizenship at Rensselaer," and noted extraordinary contributions of the Class of 2005 to the richness and diversity of the Rensselaer community and beyond. "There are many opportunities to practice good global citizenship. For after all, what is democracy? Or a university? It is a place where differences are valued, where differing points of view are listened to with respect and afforded dignity. This, you will teach the world," President Jackson said. "The world has changed enormously in your time here," President Jackson added. "But, my hope for you is that, as you move forward, you will hold fast to your core values and to your principles — they will be your North Star, your guide to navigating the challenges, which are sure to lie ahead. "My wish for you, as you embark on that journey, is to always, always keep learning, always to reach for the stars, and always to look for opportunities to make a positive difference in the world," she said. Build the Foundations To Make Your Dreams Come True, Student Class President Says Student Class President Roberto Tedesco also spoke to his fellow graduates at the podium, encouraging them to build foundations that will allow their dreams to come true. The Perfect 4.0 The J. Erik Jonsson Prize is awarded to the senior with the highest academic record. This year 31 seniors completed their undergraduate studies with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. The winner of the 2005 J. Erik Jonsson Prize is computer science and physics major Joseph Yasi from Fogelsville, Penn. Honorary Degrees In addition to Senator Clinton, Rensselaer also conferred an honorary degree on the honorable Paul A. Volcker, Robert T. Coonrod, and Joé Juneau '91. To read more, go to Press Release. |
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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), 110 8th St., Troy, NY 12180. (518) 276-6000 |