Salem College

"After today you will go in all directions – some to a job in another community, some will return back to their hometown, some will continue their education – and some of you will journey beyond our national boundaries to an international experience. You will be required to use your knowledge, experience and passion as you undertake new beginnings or enrich existing experiences. I will add to this list one more requirement: leadership. John Gardner, founder of Common Cause, often said: 'The most important position in the United States is that of a private citizen.' So as you leave today: Go in hope. Dazzle us with boldness. Think imaginatively. Be 'critical lovers,' transform indifference into action. Move things to the next level. Ask the 'Why not?' question. Be unrelenting in your passion for civic engagement. It is a cause and a calling more relevant than ever in the communities of today’s fractured world."