“We have Tutu’s connections to thank for the weather.”-Jill Kasle, University Marshal, as sunny skies shined on the Ellipse and a cool breeze blew Sunday.
“We have (Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Arthur) Levitt’s connections to thank for the weather and Tutu’s connections to thank for the stock market.”-Stephen Joel Trachtenberg, GW president
“We have only just begun to grasp the limits of our knowledge. . . To dream anything you want to dream – that is the strength of the human mind.”-Cynthia Gee, student speaker and graduate of the School of Engineering and Applied Science
“There are a couple out on bail.”-Trachtenberg , referring to the 10 Student Association presidents on the Commencement stage.
“Who is he?”-Archbishop Desmond Tutu, relating a story about an American who wanted his autograph but did not know who he was.
“Life is a series of mistakes you can learn from.”-Esther Dyson, an honorary degree recipient
“If you give the world the best you have, the best will come to you. Keep being visionaries.”-Jacqueline Joyner-Kersee, Olympic medalist and honorary degree recipient
“Live your life through passion.”-Levitt, an honorary degree recipient
“Idealism is out of fashion these days, but, perhaps, it’ll be your mission as the graduates of GW to revive it.”-Trachtenberg