Congratulations to everyone. It is exciting to be in Appaloosa country and an honor to deliver the University of Idaho first ever December commencement address. I hope that although this is Nez Perce country, I can take the liberty of relating a comment by Fools Crow, the Ceremonial Chief of the Teton Sioux. Surely, graduation is the greatest affirmation that there are no quitters here. You are all winners.
Graduations are also nostalgic events because they are about milestones and about moving on.
Being invited to speak at a graduation is both a wonderful and a dangerous opportunity. It is an honor because you, the audience, are celebrants at the very crest of a significant accomplishment. There is anticipation in the air. There is an uncharted path of opportunity ahead. I relish that excitement and live vicariously through all the possibilities that await you.