Commencement Remarks

Marianna Walker, Chair of the Faculty

May 2010

Thank you, Chancellor Ballard. 

Good morning and welcome to all graduates, faculty, families, friends, and special guests! I am Marianna Walker, Chair of the Faculty. I bring you greetings on behalf of our dynamic faculty! Congratulations on your accomplishments that have led to your graduation today from this great university.

We thank you for the opportunities to teach and mentor you. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Regardless of your degree and course of study, the faculty are hopeful that your academic experiences at East Carolina University have enriched your character, enhanced your tolerance and understanding, expanded your interests, and developed your integrity.

Navigate creatively through your world, but remember to focus on making a difference in all that you do. Speak intelligently, but remember to listen and alter your perspective whenever possible. Be a leader, but lead with respect, integrity, and dignity. Continue to learn and remember to teach. And of course, follow your dreams and have gratitude.

Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision of tomorrow.

Yesterday - students…

Today – graduates…

Tomorrow – alumni

Forever - Pirates!

Congratulations 2010 graduates!

Thank you.