Good morning, graduates, families and distinguished guests. Thank you for coming.  And welcome.

I have been thinking about some of the changes our undergraduates have seen during their time here at C.W. Post.  When you entered in the fall of 2005, we were celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of C.W. Post and you welcomed the students and faculty from Southampton to this campus.  The Class of 2009 has shown great energy and terrific spirit and you are leaving a wonderful legacy.

To those of you who will receive graduate degrees, I salute your stamina and determination to complete all of the requirements.  You have achieved your goals, and today is your day to relax and enjoy the sunshine and the beauty of this campus.

And to all of the families and friends of our graduates, thank you for all you have done to make this day possible.    

Congratulations.