Thank you Provost Forestell and good morning everyone. It is my privilege to serve as chairman of the board of trustees of this great university and it is my pleasure to extend greetings to the graduates, their families and friends on behalf of the entire board, many members proudly joining me today.

It was thirty-nine years ago this week that I graduated from college and I admit I don't recall much about my commencement. I do remember, however, that the chairman of the board was very long winded and when he realized he was going on too long, he jokingly yelled to the audience “anybody here have a watch?” ? and i heard someone whisper ? “forget the watch, how about a calendar.”

So, with that lesson learned, I will only spend an additional 90 seconds to share a message with our 2009 graduates.

As you move forward in life with the benefit of the education, knowledge and enhanced critical thinking skills you obtained at LIU, move forward as an optimist. Approach and experience life as a glass half full adventure filled with opportunity and possibility. Optimize your experiences and leverage what you have learned by seizing those opportunities to do meaningful and productive things. And as you create societal value — in whatever discipline or endeavors you choose — may you lead and inspire your colleagues and fellow citizens — always proceeding with integrity, honesty, respect and compassion for others as your guiding principles.

So, as I approach my time limit, I want to leave the graduates, family members and friends with the board's congratulations and admiration, along with our collective salute and thanks to the outstanding and dedicated professors — and the entire LIU community — for their roles in helping you get to this joyous graduation ceremony today.

Best wishes, good luck, congratulations and I hope this day brings very special and memorable Mother's Day joy to everyone.