One ship drives east,
and another west
With the self-same winds
that blow;
‘Tis the set of the sails
And not the gales,
Which decides the way to go.
Like the winds of the sea
are the ways of fate;
As the voyage along
through life;
“Tis the will of the soul
That decides its goal,
And not the calm or the strife.
–Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Each of you has clearly determined and charted your own course during your time here. And, each of you has also left a lasting mark on this place. As you leave your undergraduate days, I hope you realize how much you have contributed to the life of this campus. You gave of yourselves time and again to your peers as well as those beyond our campus boundaries. You unselfishly shared your time and expertise with those in need. You took the risk to discuss issues of diversity and differences in respectful and significant ways. And, you really listened to differences of opinions on topics ranging from religion to sexual orientation to war. It’s been a busy year with significant events, and it’s been a year that has gone by all too quickly. I haven’t found the time or taken the time to thank all who have contributed to making Wash U such a special and unique place and to thank all who have taught me so much about what is truly important in one’s life and the lives of others.
For me, some highlights include the following….and remember these are only some of the many highlights of this past year.

*Overwhelming success of CWD (Campus Week of Dialogue on Race) with many, many members of our community participating in some aspect of the week.

*The leadership and “followership” that so many of you provided to the various governing groups on campus, Student Union recognized groups, and Greek chapters.

*Thorough and timely student media coverage of news happenings, athletic events, cultural events, and just plain fun campus activities.

*The library wall becoming yet another vehicle of communication, advertising and voicing of one’s opinions.

*The countless hours of community service given freely to members of the St. Louis community and beyond.

*The incredible financial resources raised by many philanthropic activities and events: Dance Marathon, Relay for Life, Mr. Wash U, Thurtene Carnival, and numerous Greek events throughout the year.

*The introduction of new events and programs on this campus: Relay for Life, Mr. Wash U, school ring program, new Student Union constitution and subsequent governing bodies.

*Your planning and contributions made to celebrate Wash U’s Sesquicentennial. You will have to come back and see the fruits of your labor!

*Incredible and sold out performances of Diwali, Black Anthology, Chinese New Year Festival, Carnaval, as well as many a capella group performances.

…So…
be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray
or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O’Shea,
you’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting.
So…get on your way!
–Dr. Seuss

Thank you and be safe in your next adventure. You will be missed.

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