The New School Convocation
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Good afternoon everyone. Thank-you President Kerrey for that complimentary introduction. It is an honor and privilege to address the matriculating class of 2009. Firstly on behalf of the Student Senate I want to not only congratulate the professors with whom I share the stage today but also extend sincere thanks to our entire faculty who enrich our lives with their teachings.... Having said that I am banking on straight A's this semester.
Students, today I welcome you not only as the Student Senate President but more importantly I stand before you as a fellow student and a fellow change-maker. My journey at the News School began last fall, a year later here I am the first USS speaker at convocation... this feat is testimony to that fact that we are in a place of great opportunity. The thing with opportunity however, is that it is up to you to make the most of it. By being here you have already made a commitment to invest your time, energy and resources to attend one of the world's most progressive intuitions of higher education. I challenge you to ensure that we live up to that reputation..... I urge you to maximize the opportunity at hand.
As for the University Student Senate... we're setting off on an adventure. This year we usher in a new era of Student Leadership on our campus. My team and I are thrilled to have you join us. The 09-10 Student senate consists of 17 elected students representing 7 divisions of The New School... we are the biggest and most representative NS student government to date...... and guess what... we're still growing.
This is also the first year that the senate will create and administer a budget, completely funded by students. As funders of this initiative you can expect a wider array of services, more resources and ultimately more opportunity. Your USS is working closely with faculty and administrators on forging partnerships that will enhance the New School Experience for all. An example- over the last few years the number of students serving on boards and committees have increased dramatically. Student just like us are making key decisions on issues that have a local, national and even global impact.
Your senate is also creating an exciting array of social and academic activities to further enrich your time here. From speakers and conferences to parties and socials, we are will host a variety of events that meet the needs of our diverse population. Please visit www.newschoolsenate.org for details on events. Some start as early as next Tuesday.
My parents have worked in the airline industry for nearly four decades. Ironically enough, they first met 35 years ago on a flight from JFK to London Heathrow. Being that I practically grew up on the upper deck of a 747 I want to leave you with something I've picked up on my travels.... I hope you enjoy it.
Ladies and Gentlemen this is your captain speaking, Welcome aboard the New School USS. First mate Chris Crews and the rest of my team are here to help make your journey as comfortable as possible. Today we will be departing from Convocation in approximate 1 hour and 10 minutes. Depending on your destination and stopovers, your scheduled arrival time at Commencement should be between 2 and 5 years. Fear not though as onboard activities and participation opportunities are offered at no extra cost. Please get in touch with your division representative for further information. Finally, we encourage you not to sit back and relax but rather come forward and help us navigate the road ahead. Thank-you for choosing The New School and we wish you happy travels. Have a great year!
