Valedictory Address

“Valedictory Speech” (22 May 1981): 1-3. (UA Case 68, Box 1)

Your Honor, Mr. President, Your Worship, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Fellow Classmates:

Four years ago, at about this time, I was in the process of deciding where I would go for University.

Now…Four years later…I find myself at UNB-SJ for the same reason I came…it’s small.

Small may sound negative, but for me it was exactly what I wanted, most of all, I wanted two things…a solid education from a good university… and yet still, not be lost in the crowds.

Luckily, that combination was in my own front yard. In fact, I owe this university a great deal… largely in parking fines…

But I do feel fortunate though…I’ve got an excellent education, not necessarily for the courses I’ve taken, but more so for these people I’ve met.

I don’t mean for that to sound trite. I think most would agree that a larger university with students numbering into the ten or twenty thousands would not have allowed us the change to know as many people from as many different backgrounds and disciplines as we have here.

Granted, this is not an introduction to the ways of the world. But it is a respectable start.

Now… A couple of years ago…During a contemplative moment (which means I didn’t have anything to do), I wrote a little something that I hope you don’t mind if I read today…

For Sale: One small University, rarely used, scenic view of the Kennebecasis River. Just ten years old. This property is in good condition having only been used on Sundays by a little old lady. The three main buildings feature easily replaceable ceiling tiles and removable bathroom fixtures. The extensive library has thousands of books in mint condition, and wintergreen as well. The seldom used science wing features hot and cold running air, while the other building is an all purpose facility with strikingly designed rooms. Secluded location allows for total isolation. Never again will be bargain like this come along. Must sell now, before enrollments drop!

Well, of course I was just kidding at the time. But it does show why I, and possibly others, stayed here to complete a degree. By fate rather than choice, UNB-SJ has never forced its students to stumble back and look with awe upon its hallowed halls. Instead, it can be considered as easily approachable…on an eye-to-eye level with its students.

Part of this is due to the professors. I don’t think I’d have had the opportunity anywhere else, to know my professors and teachers as well as I have here. If I was asked to name only one thing about UNB-SJ that made it worth going to, it would probably be that student-professor relationship.

But enough of this. Let’s get to the real question…Was it worth it? Well, of course it was!

When you look at it in the long run, it’s only four years in your life, but the benefits are with you forever.

Some people may say why waste four years that you could’ve easily put use in the workforce starting a career. But it’s the people who say that who are in their own way wasting four years. Besides the fact most jobs now require a degree or skill of some sort, the University Atmosphere itself, develops character and maturity not found in many other places. That may sound like an ad for the army, but it’s true.

Now you may have noticed that I haven’t cried about the hard times that lie ahead, or the brave new world we’re about to enter. Well…that’s because I can’t realistically comment on either of those things. We all know our own strengths and weaknesses, and we all have at least some idea of what’s ahead…it’s up to each of us to do with what we will.

All I can say is what I’ve felt of my time here, and somehow get across to you why I’ll always look back with fondness to my years at this place. Hopefully, others feel the same.

Now, most importantly, I’d like to express on behalf of the graduates, our deepest and heartfelt thanks to our parents, friends, and teachers for sharing this moment. We’re glad you could be here, and of course we’re glad we could be here too!

And finally, since today is one of those moments when it feels right to pass on those timeless maxims and sayings…I’ll leave with you this old formula for success:

“Remember: Be nice to people until you’ve made your first million… After that people will be nice to you!”

Good Luck and Thank You.