Thomas Friedman, a columnist for The New York Times and a Pulitzer Prize winner, will speak at Washington University’s 143rd Commencement in May 2004. In addition, he will also give the first talk the upcoming year’s Assembly Series, on Sept. 17.
“Thomas Friedman is a respected and thoughtful public intellectual who has done much to increase our understanding and knowledge of the world and its condition,” said Chancellor Mark Wrighton in a statement.
Friedman’s Assembly Series lecture will appear under the banner of the College of Arts & Sciences’ “Conversations” series. These discussions are meant to be an opportunity for students to talk about issues relevant to their worlds. His lecture will not take place in Graham Chapel, which hosts most Assembly Series lectures, but at the Athletic Complex Field House.
“In such times as these, I can’t think of a better person to kick off our Sesquicentennial year celebration, for even as we pause to celebrate, we must continue to seek knowledge and insight into the world us,” said Wrighton.
On May 14, 2004, Friedman will also give the Commencement address to the graduating seniors. At the ceremony, which will take place in the Brookings Quadrangle, he will receive an honorary doctorate of humanities.
“I think he is a great person to come speak at Commencement,” said senior Angela Howard. “Especially because he is so knowledgeable about current events and will be able to give a more realistic perspective to seniors, because they are issues they will have to face in the real world-socially, personally and politically.”
Vice Chancellor of Public Affairs Fred Volkmann explained that the early announcement last April of Friedman’s appearances was made in order to inform students about the events of the upcoming school year.
“They wanted the students to know about this prior to leaving at the end of the school year,” said Volkmann. “They felt that it was important for all of the students coming back in the fall that there would be this kick off event for the week of Sept. 14-20.”
Volkmann said that Friedman’s double appearance will be in line with plans for the University’s 150th anniversary.
“The reason I am sure he was picked is because he is a nationally respected voice on certain issues that are part of the conversations that will take place in sesquicentennial year,” said Volkmann. “He is a logical person to serve as a keynote speaker in the fall. He will open the discussions and this will be a way to bring closure at the end of the year.”