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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
2011-2184-F
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection: George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13486
Folder ID Number:
13486-007
Folder Title:
Alcorn State University, 5/13/89
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Shelf:
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26
15
7
2
Ed/chin
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
file
Py
May 10, 1989
INFORMATION
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
5/11/89
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON cw
FROM:
EDWARD E. McNALLY EMN
SUBJECT:
ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
I. SUMMARY
Attached for your consideration and review are draft remarks
for your commencement address at Alcorn State University on
Saturday.
II. DISCUSSION
At 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, 1989, you are scheduled
to join Dr. Walter Washington (president of Alcorn State
University) to address Alcorn's graduating class of approximately
350 students. An audience of approximately 7,000 persons is
expected in the field house of the Health, Physical Education &
Recreation Complex.
Dr. Washington (who met with you here as part of the
leadership group from Historically Black Colleges and
Universities in January at the O.E.O.B. and again in April in the
Rose Garden) has been president at Alcorn for the past 20 years.
(McNally/Dooley)
May 10, 1989
9:25 a.m.
Draft Two
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.) )
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
Good morning to you all and thank you -- President
Washington, in particular for your fine work here at Alcorn,
respected faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional
delegation -- the families and friends and fans of these students
-- and most of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
2
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
While 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- almost all go on to professional or
managerial positions. In many cases they are the first blacks to
hold those particular positions. It's an exciting tradition --
and one of the most under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me to talk about how the Administration can best support
this unique tradition.
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates are
joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
3
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent. And that's not idle
talk. Last month's Order also directed that the federal
personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment at
Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer positions,
to help get you started in the I federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
Recenth
program.
/
I signed an order bringing $60 million in new
funds over the next four years to boost the endowment matching
grants available to schools like Alcorn.
his I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn first earned an
"A" rating as an accredited college. And that was the year "The
Seven Mile Stretch" ((ALCORN'S ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved
-- a milestone that was resoundingly cheered by the graduating
class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the Oakland Chapel.
?
4
Like my classmates in Connecticut, many of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
5
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
serving others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your old football coach put it -- "the air is a little bit
cleaner, the grass is a little bit greener, the water is a little
bit sweeter. .it's just a little bit closer to heaven.' This
place has character -- it is a university with a mission. And to
paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this month, this
special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath your wings."
For you -- and for young Americans graduating all across our
country this month -- it is time for you to take that wind and
soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
But politics is hardly the only arena where a new breeze is
blowing.
When I got out of college, I piled everything I had
into an old Studebaker and went to Texas to learn the oil
business. Before long we started a company -- made a little
money but the bigger reward was building something on my own.
And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
/tow about some will 90 into business
risks, rewonds, job 3
some will into education
1
sou will goints indicin
excellence, 90 accountability choice
send other.
6
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream.
And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's 1988 yearbook was
dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what he
7
taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every day
to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
7
REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL
INTRODUCE YOU.))
THANK YOU, DOCTOR. THANK YOU. ((PAUSE))
You KNOW, LAST MONTH WE COMMEMORATED THE
BICENTENNIAL OF THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY.
- 2 -
AND WALTER, I HAVE TO TELL YOU -- AFTER ALL THESE
ACTORS IN POWDERED WIGS -- IT'S A RELIEF TO FINALLY
STAND BESIDE SOMEONE WHO REALLY IS "PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON."
GOOD MORNING TO YOU ALL AND THANK YOU, PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON, IN PARTICULAR, FOR THE FINE WORK BY YOU AND
YOUR FACULTY HERE AT ALCORN ((ALL-CORN)).
- 3 -
IT'S ALWAYS GOOD TO SEE THAD AND TRENT, YOUR ABLE
SENATORS, MY GOOD FRIEND SONNY AND OTHERS IN
MISSISSIPPI'S DISTINGUISHED CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION.
CONGRATULATIONS ALSO TO THE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS AND
FANS OF THESE STUDENTS -- AND, MOST OF ALL: THE ALCORN
STATE UNIVERSITY CLASS OF '89.
FOR FOUR YEARS, TODAY'S SENIORS HAVE BEEN PART OF
THE PROUD TRADITION THEY CALL "THE ALCORN FAMILY." AND
THIS IS A DAY FOR THE FAMILY.
- 4 -
BUT IT'S YOUR OWN INDIVIDUAL FAMILIES -- THE MOTHERS
AND FATHERS AND GRANDPARENTS GATHERED HERE -- THAT I
WANT TO CONGRATULATE FIRST. IN A VERY PRIVATE WAY,
YOUR YEARS OF HARD WORK, SACRIFICE, AND YES, LOVE FOR
YOUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS HAVE BROUGHT THIS MOMENT TO
PASS. You DESERVE THE FIRST ROUND OF APPLAUSE.
- 5 -
THE AMERICAN FAMILY HAS BEEN UNDER SIEGE IN RECENT
TIMES. BUT, AS THE MONTHS UNFOLD, I BECOME MORE AND
MORE CERTAIN THAT THE ANSWER TO OUR PROBLEMS CAN BE
FOUND IN THE STRENGTH OF THE AMERICAN FAMILY. LOOKING
AROUND THIS ROOM, YOU CAN FEEL THE PRIDE. IT'S A
POWERFUL FORCE FOR GOOD.
- 6 -
AND AS PRESIDENT, I WILL DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO PROMOTE
THE FAMILY -- EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION -- TO PROTECT THE
FAMILY -- IN THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS -- AND TO REAFFIRM
THE FAMILY VALUES THAT BROUGHT YOUR KIDS THROUGH THESE
FOUR CHALLENGING YEARS.
FOR SOME AMERICAN FAMILIES -- THOSE FORTUNATE
FAMILIES WHERE CHILDREN ARE RAISED ASSUMING THEY WILL
HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO TO COLLEGE -- THE DRAMA OF
TODAY'S CEREMONY IS DIFFICULT TO APPRECIATE.
- 7 -
MANY OF YOU ARE THE FIRST IN YOUR FAMILIES EVER TO
ATTEND COLLEGE -- LET ALONE STAY THE COURSE To
GRADUATE.
AND THE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION WROUGHT BY
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES SUCH AS ALCORN IS NOTHING
LESS THAN ASTOUNDING: WHILE 85 PERCENT OF UNITED NEGRO
COLLEGE FUND ALUMNI COME FROM BLUE-COLLAR FAMILIES --
ALMOST ALL GO ON TO PROFESSIONAL OR MANAGERIAL
POSITIONS.
- 8 -
IN MANY CASES THEY ARE THE FIRST BLACKS TO HOLD THOSE
PARTICULAR POSITIONS. IT'S AN EXCITING TRADITION --
AND ONE OF THE MOST UNDER-APPRECIATED SUCCESS STORIES
IN AMERICA.
IT'S ALSO A TRADITION THAT'S CLOSE TO MY HEART.
WHEN I WAS A COLLEGE SENIOR IN 1948, BARBARA AND I
BEGAN PARTICIPATING IN THE UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND.
IN THE FORTY YEARS SINCE, WE'VE CONTINUED TO DO OUR
SMALL PART ALONG THE WAY.
- 9 -
AND EVEN BEFORE BECOMING PRESIDENT -- BACK IN JANUARY,
ABOUT A WEEK BEFORE THE INAUGURATION -- WALTER
WASHINGTON AND SOME OF HIS COLLEAGUES MET WITH ME TO
TALK ABOUT HOW THE ADMINISTRATION CAN BEST SUPPORT THIS
UNIQUE TRADITION.
- 10 -
SOME GOOD IDEAS CAME OUT OF THAT GATHERING. AND
SEVERAL ARE ALREADY IN EFFECT -- BEGUN LAST MONTH WHEN
WALTER AND OTHERS JOINED ME IN THE ROSE GARDEN TO
LAUNCH THE PRESIDENT'S BOARD OF ADVISORS ON
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
Now, I UNDERSTAND THAT SEVERAL OF TODAY'S GRADUATES
ARE JOINING ME IN FEDERAL SERVICE -- IN AGRICULTURE,
DEFENSE, TRANSPORTATION AND OTHER CRITICAL AREAS.
- 11 -
&
I'M PROUD OF YOU -- WE WELCOME YOU -- AMERICA NEEDS
YOUR TALENT. AND THAT'S NOT IDLE TALK. LAST MONTH'S
ORDER ALSO DIRECTED THAT THE FEDERAL PERSONNEL OFFICE
DEVELOP A PROGRAM TO IMPROVE RECRUITMENT AT ALCORN AND
SIMILAR COLLEGES FOR PART-TIME AND SUMMER POSITIONS, TO
HELP GET YOU STARTED IN FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICE.
I ALSO UNDERSTAND THAT A CAMPAIGN IS UNDERWAY HERE
NOW TO RAISE HALF A MILLION DOLLARS THROUGH A FEDERAL
CHALLENGE GRANT PROGRAM.
- 12 -
RECENTLY, I SIGNED AN ORDER BRINGING $60 MILLION IN NEW
FUNDS OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS TO BOOST THE ENDOWMENT
MATCHING GRANTS AVAILABLE TO SCHOOLS LIKE ALCORN.
As I TOLD THE COLLEGE PRESIDENTS WHO GATHERED AT
THE WHITE HOUSE LAST MONTH, THESE NEW INITIATIVES ARE
JUST A START. MORE MUST BE DONE.
- 13 -
BUT ON A DAY LIKE TODAY, THERE IS MUCH OF WHICH WE
CAN BE PROUD. JUST AS I HAVE COVERED A FAIR PIECE OF
GROUND SINCE MY OWN DAYS AS A COLLEGE SENIOR, so TOO
HAS ALCORN COME A LONG WAY SINCE 1948. THAT WAS THE
LANDMARK YEAR ALCORN FIRST EARNED AN "A" RATING AS AN
ACCREDITED COLLEGE. AND THAT WAS THE YEAR "THE
STRETCH" WAS FINALLY PAVED -- A MILESTONE THAT WAS
RESOUNDINGLY CHEERED BY THE GRADUATING CLASS.
- 14 -
THEY WERE ONLY 60 IN NUMBER -- BARELY A FIFTH OF
THE TOTAL RECEIVING DEGREES TODAY -- A CEREMONY so
SMALL THAT IT FIT COMFORTABLY IN THE OAKLAND CHAPEL.
LIKE MY CLASSMATES IN CONNECTICUT, MANY OF THE MEN
AT ALCORN IN 1948 WERE VETERANS, SOLDIERS WHO HAD
FOUGHT FOR DEMOCRACY WHILE SERVING IN SEGREGATED UNITS.
AND LIKE MANY OF YOU TODAY, THE ALCORNITES OF 1948 WERE
GRADUATING WITH SKILLS THAT WOULD ENABLE THEM To FEED
THE HUNGRY, NURSE THE SICK, AND TEACH THE YOUNG.
- 15 -
FUTURE PITTSBURGH STEELER JACK SPINKS -- THE FIRST
BLACK PRO ATHLETE TO COME OUT OF MISSISSIPPI -- WAS
GETTING READY TO START HIS FRESHMAN YEAR. HE WOULD
SOON BE PRACTICING IN A RAMSHACKLE WOODEN BUILDING THAT
EVERYONE CALLED THE "OLD CHICKEN COOP." JACK SAYS THAT
WHEN IT RAINED DURING BASKETBALL GAMES, THE ROOF LEAKED
so BAD PEOPLE HAD TO KEEP THEIR UMBRELLAS OPEN. THE
MODERN FIELD HOUSE IN WHICH WE'RE GATHERED TODAY WAS
THEN NOT EVEN A DREAM.
- 16 -
AND JACK IS SOMEWHERE OUT THERE TODAY -- AND I
UNDERSTAND HIS YOUNGEST SON IS PART OF THE GRADUATING
CLASS.
THE FORTY YEARS OF SCHOOLING THAT SEPARATE JACK AND
HIS SON EMBRACE AN ERA OF TREMENDOUS CHANGE -- FOR
ALCORN, AND FOR AMERICA -- A TIME OF UPHEAVAL, AND
FINALLY, A TIME OF GROWTH AND MAYBE SOMETHING LIKE
WISDOM.
- 17 -
NOT EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED. THE THREADS WOVEN
THROUGH THE FABRIC OF ALCORN -- AND ANY PLACE WHERE
EXCELLENCE IS SOUGHT -- ARE WHAT USED TO BE CALLED
SIMPLE FAMILY VALUES. WE'RE NOT TALKING ABOUT TWO SETS
OF VALUES -- FAMILY VALUES ARE THE SAME FOR BLACK AND
WHITE. AND THEY ARE NOT COMPLICATED. HONESTY. FAITH.
FRUGALITY. ACCEPTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY. THE
IMPORTANCE OF WORK. A TRADITION OF HELPING ONE'S
NEIGHBORS.
- 18 -
MARTIN LUTHER KING ARGUED THAT "INTELLIGENCE IS NOT
ENOUGH." HE SAID: "INTELLIGENCE PLUS CHARACTER --
THAT IS THE GOAL OF TRUE EDUCATION."
WELL, YOU AT ALCORN ARE LUCKY. ALCORN IS A PLACE
WHERE -- AS YOUR OLD FOOTBALL COACH PUT IT -- "THE AIR
IS A LITTLE BIT CLEANER, THE GRASS IS A LITTLE BIT
GREENER, THE WATER IS A LITTLE BIT SWEETER. .IT'S
JUST A LITTLE BIT CLOSER TO HEAVEN." THIS PLACE HAS
CHARACTER -- IT IS A UNIVERSITY WITH A MISSION.
- 19 -
AND TO PARAPHRASE A NEW SONG THAT'S CLIMBING THE CHARTS
THIS MONTH, THIS SPECIAL, SECLUDED COLLEGE HAS BEEN
"THE WIND BENEATH YOUR WINGS." FOR YOU -- AND FOR
YOUNG AMERICANS GRADUATING ALL ACROSS OUR COUNTRY THIS
MONTH -- IT IS TIME FOR YOU TO TAKE THAT WIND AND SOAR.
FOR SOME OF YOU, I HOPE THERE COMES A DAY WHEN YOU
RIDE THOSE WINDS INTO THE POLITICAL ARENA, TO FIGHT FOR
WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN, TO GRAPPLE NOT ONLY WITH YOUR OWN
DREAMS, BUT ALSO THOSE OF YOUR COUNTRYMEN.
- 20 -
BUT POLITICS IS HARDLY THE ONLY ARENA WHERE A NEW
BREEZE IS BLOWING. SOME OF YOU WILL LAND IN BUSINESS -
- MAYBE EVEN START A BUSINESS -- WHERE YOU CAN CREATE
JOBS, ADDING TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF OTHER AMERICANS.
THAT'S PUBLIC SERVICE, TOO.
Now, BUSINESS CAN BE PRETTY ROUGH AND TUMBLE. BUT
AMERICA IS SUCCESSFUL BECAUSE WE ARE A NATION OF RISK-
TAKERS. THE ALCORN BRAVES KNOW THAT YOU CAN'T STEAL
SECOND BASE AND KEEP ONE FOOT ON FIRST.
- 21 -
OTHERS WILL TEACH THE NEXT GENERATION, AND PUT
"WIND BENEATH THEIR WINGS." YOUR TOUCHSTONES SHOULD BE
EXCELLENCE, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CHOICE. THE SYSTEM
MUST OFFER PARENTS QUALITY CHOICE IN EDUCATION. ALCORN
IS A GOOD EXAMPLE. BUT OUR SCHOOLS MUST ALSO BE MORE
ACCOUNTABLE AND THOSE OF YOU WHO WILL KNOW THE JOY OF
HELPING A CHILD LEARN, ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THAT
RESPONSIBILITY.
- 22 -
OTHERS ARE HEADED FOR HEALTH CARE, AGRICULTURE,
JOURNALISM, THE PROFESSIONS. WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE, IT
IS WITHIN YOU TO CHANGE THE WORLD -- AND ANY DEFINITION
OF A SUCCESSFUL LIFE MUST INCLUDE SERVING OTHERS.
22A
As EACH OF YOU BEGINS A NEW LIFE TODAY, YOU MAY
FAIRLY ASK? WILL MY FUTURE BE SECURE? THIS IS NOT
JUST A DOMESTIC QUESTION. IT IS A FOREIGN POLICY
QUESTION.
FOR THE PAST FORTY YEARS, THE UNITED STATES AND THE
SOVIET UNION HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN A STRUGGLE -- BECAUSE
THE SOVIETS HAVE CHOSEN TO STAND APART FROM -- AND
OPPOSED TO -- THE WORLD FAMILY OF NATIONS.
22B
YESTERDAY, I ANNOUNCED A NEW POLICY FOR THE
1990s -- ONE THAT MOVES BEYOND CONTAINMENT OF THE
SOVIET UNION. THIS NEW POLICY SETS A GOAL OF BRINGING
THE SOVIET UNION INTO THE WORLD COMMUNITY. AND IF WE
SUCCEED, THE FUTURE YOU WILL KNOW WILL BE SAFER, AND
THE WORLD YOU WILL KNOW WILL BE FREER.
22C
As THE SOVIET UNION MOVES TOWARD GREATER OPENNESS AND
DEMOCRATIZATION -- AS THEY MEET THE CHALLENGE OF
RESPONSIBLE INTERNATIONAL BEHAVIOR -- WE WILL MATCH
THEIR STEPS WITH STEPS OF OUR OWN.
- 23 -
TODAY, EVERY SENIOR HERE IS AN EDUCATED MAN OR
WOMAN, PROUD AND SELF-ASSURED. WITH ALL THE COCKINESS
OF YOUTH, SOME OF YOU -- I HOPE MOST OF YOU -- MUST BE
FEELING TODAY LIKE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
- 24 -
WELL, TRUST THOSE INSTINCTS. EVERYONE HAS A DREAM.
AND EVERYONE HAS SOMETHING TO GIVE.
LAST MONTH I SAW A NEW MOVIE -- A MOVIE ABOUT
BASEBALL AND ABOUT FAITH -- IN WHICH BURT LANCASTER
PONDERS THE POWER OF HOPE. HE ASKS: "Is THERE ENOUGH
MAGIC, OUT THERE IN THE MOONLIGHT, TO MAKE THIS DREAM
COME TRUE?"
- 25 -
WELL, I HAVE COME TO MISSISSIPPI TODAY BECAUSE THE
MAGIC OF AMERICA, AND THE MAGIC OF OUR TIMES, MEANS
BELIEVING THAT YOUR BEST DAYS -- THAT OUR BEST DAYS --
ARE STILL TO COME. BORN IN AN ERA OF PEACE AND
EDUCATED IN TIMES OF RELATIVE PROSPERITY, YOUR
GENERATION CAN LOOK TO A NEW CENTURY RICH WITH
UNIMAGINABLE OPPORTUNITIES.
- 26 -
YES, THERE IS ENOUGH MAGIC OUT THERE -- ENOUGH FOR
ALL AMERICANS. AND YES, YOU CAN SEIZE THAT MAGIC WITH
THE POWER OF YOUR OWN HANDS -- AND WITH THE SKILLS
BEQUEATHED YOU BY THIS SPECIAL COLLEGE. AND YES, JUST
AS ALCORN'S 1988 YEARBOOK WAS DEDICATED TO DR. KING,
YOU CAN HONOR HIS MEMORY BY DOING WHAT HE TAUGHT US ALL
TO DO -- TO HAVE A DREAM -- AND TO WORK EVERY DAY TO
MAKE THAT DREAM COME TRUE.
- 27 -
AMERICA IS PROUD OF YOU AND THE FAMILIES YOU
REPRESENT. GOD BLESS YOU IN THE CHALLENGES TO COME.
AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES.
#
#
#
(McNally/Dooley)
May 10, 1989
9:25 a.m.
Draft Two
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.) )
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
Good morning to you all and thank you, President Washington,
in particular, for the fine work by you and your faculty here at
Alcorn ((ALL-CORN)). It's always good to see Thad and Trent,
your able Senators, my good friend Sonny and others in
Mississippi's distinguished congressional delegation.
Congratulations also to the families and friends and fans of
these students -- and, most of all: The Alcorn State University
Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
2
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
The American family has been under seige in recent times.
But as the months unfold I become more and more certain that the
answer to our problems can be found in the strength of the
American family. Looking around this room, you can feel the
pride. It's a powerful force for good. And as President, I will
do everything I can to promote the family -- excellence in
education -- to protect the family -- in the fight against drugs
-- and to reaffirm the family values that brought your kids
through these four challenging years.
For some American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
While 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- almost all go on to professional or
managerial positions. In many cases they are the first blacks to
hold those particular positions. It's an exciting tradition --
and one of the most under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
3
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me to talk about how the Administration can best support
this unique tradition.
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates are
joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent. And that's not idle
talk. Last month's Order also directed that the federal
personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment at
Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer positions,
to help get you started in federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Recently, I signed an order bringing $60 million in new
funds over the next four years to boost the endowment matching
grants available to schools like Alcorn.
As I told the college presidents who gathered at the White
House last month, these new initiatives are just a start. More
must be done.
4
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn first earned an
"A" rating as an accredited college. And that was the year "The
Seven Mile Stretch" ((ALCORN'S ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved
-- a milestone that was resoundingly cheered by the graduating
class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the Oakland Chapel.
Like my classmates in Connecticut, many of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
5
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your old football coach put it -- "the air is a little bit
cleaner, the grass is a little bit greener, the water is a little
bit sweeter. .it's just a little bit closer to heaven.' " This
place has character -- it is a university with a mission. And to
paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this month, this
special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath your wings. "
For you -- and for young Americans graduating all across our
country this month -- it is time for you to take that wind and
soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
6
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
But politics is hardly the only arena where a new breeze is
blowing. Some of you will land in business -- maybe even start a
business -- where you can create jobs, adding to the opportunity
of other Americans. That's public service, too.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Others will teach the next generation, and put "wind beneath
their wings." Your touchstones should be excellence,
accountability, and choice. The system must offer parents
quality choice in education. Alcorn is a good example. But our
schools must also be more accountable and those of you who will
know the joy of helping a child learn, are an important part of
that responsibility.
Others are headed for health care, agriculture, journalism,
the professions. Whatever you choose, it is within you to change
the world -- and any definition of a successful life must include
serving others.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
7
Last month I saw a new movie --- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's 1988 yearbook was
dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what he
taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every day
to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL
INTRODUCE YOU.))
THANK YOU, DOCTOR. THANK YOU. ((PAUSE))
You KNOW, LAST MONTH WE COMMEMORATED THE
BICENTENNIAL OF THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY.
- 2 -
AND WALTER, I HAVE TO TELL YOU -- AFTER ALL THESE
ACTORS IN POWDERED WIGS -- IT'S A RELIEF To FINALLY
STAND BESIDE SOMEONE WHO REALLY IS "PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON."
GOOD MORNING TO YOU ALL AND THANK YOU, PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON, IN PARTICULAR, FOR THE FINE WORK BY YOU AND
YOUR FACULTY HERE AT ALCORN ((ALL-CORN)).
- 3 -
IT'S ALWAYS GOOD TO SEE THAD AND TRENT, YOUR ABLE
SENATORS, MY GOOD FRIEND SONNY AND OTHERS IN
MISSISSIPPI'S DISTINGUISHED CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION.
CONGRATULATIONS ALSO TO THE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS AND
FANS OF THESE STUDENTS -- AND, MOST OF ALL: THE ALCORN
STATE UNIVERSITY CLASS OF '89.
FOR FOUR YEARS, TODAY'S SENIORS HAVE BEEN PART OF
THE PROUD TRADITION THEY CALL "THE ALCORN FAMILY." AND
THIS IS A DAY FOR THE FAMILY.
- 4 -
BUT IT'S YOUR OWN INDIVIDUAL FAMILIES -- THE MOTHERS
AND FATHERS AND GRANDPARENTS GATHERED HERE -- THAT I
WANT TO CONGRATULATE FIRST. IN A VERY PRIVATE WAY,
YOUR YEARS OF HARD WORK, SACRIFICE, AND YES, LOVE FOR
YOUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS HAVE BROUGHT THIS MOMENT TO
PASS. You DESERVE THE FIRST ROUND OF APPLAUSE.
- 5 -
THE AMERICAN FAMILY HAS BEEN UNDER SIEGE IN RECENT
TIMES. BUT, AS THE MONTHS UNFOLD, I BECOME MORE AND
MORE CERTAIN THAT THE ANSWER TO OUR PROBLEMS CAN BE
FOUND IN THE STRENGTH OF THE AMERICAN FAMILY. LOOKING
AROUND THIS ROOM, YOU CAN FEEL THE PRIDE. IT'S A
POWERFUL FORCE FOR GOOD.
- 6 -
AND AS PRESIDENT, I WILL DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO PROMOTE
THE FAMILY -- EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION -- TO PROTECT THE
FAMILY -- IN THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS -- AND TO REAFFIRM
THE FAMILY VALUES THAT BROUGHT YOUR KIDS THROUGH THESE
FOUR CHALLENGING YEARS.
FOR SOME AMERICAN FAMILIES -- THOSE FORTUNATE
FAMILIES WHERE CHILDREN ARE RAISED ASSUMING THEY WILL
HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO TO COLLEGE -- THE DRAMA OF
TODAY'S CEREMONY IS DIFFICULT TO APPRECIATE.
- 7 -
MANY OF YOU ARE THE FIRST IN YOUR FAMILIES EVER TO
ATTEND COLLEGE -- LET ALONE STAY THE COURSE TO
GRADUATE.
AND THE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION WROUGHT BY
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES SUCH AS ALCORN IS NOTHING
LESS THAN ASTOUNDING: WHILE 85 PERCENT OF UNITED NEGRO
COLLEGE FUND ALUMNI COME FROM BLUE-COLLAR FAMILIES --
ALMOST ALL GO ON TO PROFESSIONAL OR MANAGERIAL
POSITIONS.
- 8 -
IN MANY CASES THEY ARE THE FIRST BLACKS TO HOLD THOSE
PARTICULAR POSITIONS. It's AN EXCITING TRADITION --
AND ONE OF THE MOST UNDER-APPRECIATED SUCCESS STORIES
IN AMERICA.
IT'S ALSO A TRADITION THAT'S CLOSE TO MY HEART.
WHEN I WAS A COLLEGE SENIOR IN 1948, BARBARA AND I
BEGAN PARTICIPATING IN THE UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND.
IN THE FORTY YEARS SINCE, WE'VE CONTINUED TO DO OUR
SMALL PART ALONG THE WAY.
- 9 -
AND EVEN BEFORE BECOMING PRESIDENT -- BACK IN JANUARY,
ABOUT A WEEK BEFORE THE INAUGURATION -- WALTER
WASHINGTON AND SOME OF HIS COLLEAGUES MET WITH ME TO
TALK ABOUT HOW THE ADMINISTRATION CAN BEST SUPPORT THIS
UNIQUE TRADITION.
- 10 -
SOME GOOD IDEAS CAME OUT OF THAT GATHERING. AND
SEVERAL ARE ALREADY IN EFFECT -- BEGUN LAST MONTH WHEN
WALTER AND OTHERS JOINED ME IN THE ROSE GARDEN TO
LAUNCH THE PRESIDENT'S BOARD OF ADVISORS ON
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
Now, I UNDERSTAND THAT SEVERAL OF TODAY'S GRADUATES
ARE JOINING ME IN FEDERAL SERVICE -- IN AGRICULTURE,
DEFENSE, TRANSPORTATION AND OTHER CRITICAL AREAS.
- 11 -
I'M PROUD OF YOU -- WE WELCOME YOU -- AMERICA NEEDS
YOUR TALENT. AND THAT'S NOT IDLE TALK. LAST MONTH'S
ORDER ALSO DIRECTED THAT THE FEDERAL PERSONNEL OFFICE
DEVELOP A PROGRAM TO IMPROVE RECRUITMENT AT ALCORN AND
SIMILAR COLLEGES FOR PART-TIME AND SUMMER POSITIONS, TO
HELP GET YOU STARTED IN FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICE.
I ALSO UNDERSTAND THAT A CAMPAIGN IS UNDERWAY HERE
NOW TO RAISE HALF A MILLION DOLLARS THROUGH A FEDERAL
CHALLENGE GRANT PROGRAM.
- 12 -
RECENTLY, I SIGNED AN ORDER BRINGING $60 MILLION IN NEW
FUNDS OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS TO BOOST THE ENDOWMENT
MATCHING GRANTS AVAILABLE TO SCHOOLS LIKE ALCORN.
As I TOLD THE COLLEGE PRESIDENTS WHO GATHERED AT
THE WHITE HOUSE LAST MONTH, THESE NEW INITIATIVES ARE
JUST A START. MORE MUST BE DONE.
- 13 -
BUT ON A DAY LIKE TODAY, THERE IS MUCH OF WHICH WE
CAN BE PROUD. JUST AS I HAVE COVERED A FAIR PIECE OF
GROUND SINCE MY OWN DAYS AS A COLLEGE SENIOR, so TOO
HAS ALCORN COME A LONG WAY SINCE 1948. THAT WAS THE
LANDMARK YEAR ALCORN FIRST EARNED AN "A" RATING AS AN
ACCREDITED COLLEGE. AND THAT WAS THE YEAR "THE
STRETCH" WAS FINALLY PAVED -- A MILESTONE THAT WAS
RESOUNDINGLY CHEERED BY THE GRADUATING CLASS.
- 14 -
THEY WERE ONLY 60 IN NUMBER -- BARELY A FIFTH OF
THE TOTAL RECEIVING DEGREES TODAY -- A CEREMONY so
SMALL THAT IT FIT COMFORTABLY IN THE OAKLAND CHAPEL.
LIKE MY CLASSMATES IN CONNECTICUT, MANY OF THE MEN
AT ALCORN IN 1948 WERE VETERANS, SOLDIERS WHO HAD
FOUGHT FOR DEMOCRACY WHILE SERVING IN SEGREGATED UNITS.
AND LIKE MANY OF YOU TODAY, THE ALCORNITES OF 1948 WERE
GRADUATING WITH SKILLS THAT WOULD ENABLE THEM TO FEED
THE HUNGRY, NURSE THE SICK, AND TEACH THE YOUNG.
- 15 -
FUTURE PITTSBURGH STEELER JACK SPINKS -- THE FIRST
BLACK PRO ATHLETE TO COME OUT OF MISSISSIPPI -- WAS
GETTING READY TO START HIS FRESHMAN YEAR. HE WOULD
SOON BE PRACTICING IN A RAMSHACKLE WOODEN BUILDING THAT
EVERYONE CALLED THE "OLD CHICKEN COOP." JACK SAYS THAT
WHEN IT RAINED DURING BASKETBALL GAMES, THE ROOF LEAKED
so BAD PEOPLE HAD TO KEEP THEIR UMBRELLAS OPEN. THE
MODERN FIELD HOUSE IN WHICH WE'RE GATHERED TODAY WAS
THEN NOT EVEN A DREAM.
- 16 -
AND JACK IS SOMEWHERE OUT THERE TODAY -- AND I
UNDERSTAND HIS YOUNGEST SON IS PART OF THE GRADUATING
CLASS.
THE FORTY YEARS OF SCHOOLING THAT SEPARATE JACK AND
HIS SON EMBRACE AN ERA OF TREMENDOUS CHANGE -- FOR
ALCORN, AND FOR AMERICA -- A TIME OF UPHEAVAL, AND
FINALLY, A TIME OF GROWTH AND MAYBE SOMETHING LIKE
WISDOM.
- 17 -
NOT EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED. THE THREADS WOVEN
THROUGH THE FABRIC OF ALCORN -- AND ANY PLACE WHERE
EXCELLENCE IS SOUGHT -- ARE WHAT USED TO BE CALLED
SIMPLE FAMILY VALUES. WE'RE NOT TALKING ABOUT TWO SETS
OF VALUES -- FAMILY VALUES ARE THE SAME FOR BLACK AND
WHITE. AND THEY ARE NOT COMPLICATED. HONESTY. FAITH.
FRUGALITY. ACCEPTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY. THE
IMPORTANCE OF WORK. A TRADITION OF HELPING ONE'S
NEIGHBORS.
- 18 -
MARTIN LUTHER KING ARGUED THAT "INTELLIGENCE IS NOT
ENOUGH." HE SAID: "INTELLIGENCE PLUS CHARACTER --
THAT IS THE GOAL OF TRUE EDUCATION."
WELL, YOU AT ALCORN ARE LUCKY. ALCORN IS A PLACE
WHERE -- AS YOUR OLD FOOTBALL COACH PUT IT -- "THE AIR
IS A LITTLE BIT CLEANER, THE GRASS IS A LITTLE BIT
GREENER, THE WATER IS A LITTLE BIT SWEETER. .IT'S
JUST A LITTLE BIT CLOSER TO HEAVEN." THIS PLACE HAS
CHARACTER -- IT IS A UNIVERSITY WITH A MISSION.
- 19 -
AND TO PARAPHRASE A NEW SONG THAT'S CLIMBING THE CHARTS
THIS MONTH, THIS SPECIAL, SECLUDED COLLEGE HAS BEEN
"THE WIND BENEATH YOUR WINGS." FOR YOU -- AND FOR
YOUNG AMERICANS GRADUATING ALL ACROSS OUR COUNTRY THIS
MONTH -- IT IS TIME FOR YOU TO TAKE THAT WIND AND SOAR.
FOR SOME OF YOU, I HOPE THERE COMES A DAY WHEN YOU
RIDE THOSE WINDS INTO THE POLITICAL ARENA, TO FIGHT FOR
WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN, TO GRAPPLE NOT ONLY WITH YOUR OWN
DREAMS, BUT ALSO THOSE OF YOUR COUNTRYMEN.
- 20 -
BUT POLITICS IS HARDLY THE ONLY ARENA WHERE A NEW
BREEZE IS BLOWING. SOME OF YOU WILL LAND IN BUSINESS -
- MAYBE EVEN START A BUSINESS -- WHERE YOU CAN CREATE
JOBS, ADDING TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF OTHER AMERICANS.
THAT'S PUBLIC SERVICE, TOO.
Now, BUSINESS CAN BE PRETTY ROUGH AND TUMBLE. BUT
AMERICA IS SUCCESSFUL BECAUSE WE ARE A NATION OF RISK-
TAKERS. THE ALCORN BRAVES KNOW THAT YOU CAN'T STEAL
SECOND BASE AND KEEP ONE FOOT ON FIRST.
- 21 -
OTHERS WILL TEACH THE NEXT GENERATION, AND PUT
"WIND BENEATH THEIR WINGS." YOUR TOUCHSTONES SHOULD BE
EXCELLENCE, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CHOICE. THE SYSTEM
MUST OFFER PARENTS QUALITY CHOICE IN EDUCATION. ALCORN
IS A GOOD EXAMPLE. BUT OUR SCHOOLS MUST ALSO BE MORE
ACCOUNTABLE AND THOSE OF YOU WHO WILL KNOW THE JOY OF
HELPING A CHILD LEARN, ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THAT
RESPONSIBILITY.
- 22 -
OTHERS ARE HEADED FOR HEALTH CARE, AGRICULTURE,
JOURNALISM, THE PROFESSIONS. WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE, IT
IS WITHIN YOU TO CHANGE THE WORLD -- AND ANY DEFINITION
OF A SUCCESSFUL LIFE MUST INCLUDE SERVING OTHERS.
22A
As EACH OF YOU BEGINS A NEW LIFE TODAY, YOU MAY
FAIRLY ASK? WILL MY FUTURE BE SECURE? THIS IS NOT
JUST A DOMESTIC QUESTION. IT IS A FOREIGN POLICY
QUESTION.
FOR THE PAST FORTY YEARS, THE UNITED STATES AND THE
SOVIET UNION HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN A STRUGGLE -- BECAUSE
THE SOVIETS HAVE CHOSEN TO STAND APART FROM -- AND
OPPOSED TO -- THE WORLD FAMILY OF NATIONS.
22B
YESTERDAY, I ANNOUNCED A NEW POLICY FOR THE
1990s -- ONE THAT MOVES BEYOND CONTAINMENT OF THE
SOVIET UNION. THIS NEW POLICY SETS A GOAL OF BRINGING
THE SOVIET UNION INTO THE WORLD COMMUNITY. AND IF WE
SUCCEED, THE FUTURE YOU WILL KNOW WILL BE SAFER, AND
THE WORLD YOU WILL KNOW WILL BE FREER.
22C
As THE SOVIET UNION MOVES TOWARD GREATER OPENNESS AND
DEMOCRATIZATION -- AS THEY MEET THE CHALLENGE OF
RESPONSIBLE INTERNATIONAL BEHAVIOR -- WE WILL MATCH
THEIR STEPS WITH STEPS OF OUR OWN.
- 23 -
TODAY, EVERY SENIOR HERE IS AN EDUCATED MAN OR
WOMAN, PROUD AND SELF-ASSURED. WITH ALL THE COCKINESS
OF YOUTH, SOME OF YOU -- I HOPE MOST OF YOU -- MUST BE
FEELING TODAY LIKE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
- 24 -
WELL, TRUST THOSE INSTINCTS. EVERYONE HAS A DREAM.
AND EVERYONE HAS SOMETHING TO GIVE.
LAST MONTH I SAW A NEW MOVIE -- A MOVIE ABOUT
BASEBALL AND ABOUT FAITH -- IN WHICH BURT LANCASTER
PONDERS THE POWER OF HOPE. HE ASKS: "Is THERE ENOUGH
MAGIC, OUT THERE IN THE MOONLIGHT, TO MAKE THIS DREAM
COME TRUE?"
- 25 -
WELL, I HAVE COME TO MISSISSIPPI TODAY BECAUSE THE
MAGIC OF AMERICA, AND THE MAGIC OF OUR TIMES, MEANS
BELIEVING THAT YOUR BEST DAYS -- THAT OUR BEST DAYS --
ARE STILL TO COME. BORN IN AN ERA OF PEACE AND
EDUCATED IN TIMES OF RELATIVE PROSPERITY, YOUR
GENERATION CAN LOOK TO A NEW CENTURY RICH WITH
UNIMAGINABLE OPPORTUNITIES.
- 26 -
YES, THERE IS ENOUGH MAGIC OUT THERE -- ENOUGH FOR
ALL AMERICANS. AND YES, YOU CAN SEIZE THAT MAGIC WITH
THE POWER OF YOUR OWN HANDS -- AND WITH THE SKILLS
BEQUEATHED YOU BY THIS SPECIAL COLLEGE. AND YES, JUST
AS ALCORN'S 1988 YEARBOOK WAS DEDICATED TO DR. KING,
YOU CAN HONOR HIS MEMORY BY DOING WHAT HE TAUGHT US ALL
TO DO -- TO HAVE A DREAM -- AND TO WORK EVERY DAY TO
MAKE THAT DREAM COME TRUE.
- 27 -
AMERICA IS PROUD OF YOU AND THE FAMILIES YOU
REPRESENT. GOD BLESS YOU IN THE CHALLENGES TO COME.
AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES.
#
#
#
N
overall speech is fine!!!
right length too.
I do n ot think the personal business stuff is good to use any more
except 'in passing'
thus how about this instead
:
Some will go into business. There the risks, and rewards will guide
your lives. There you will add to to the opputrunity of other's by creating jobs
Some iwll go into education There the key words should be
excellence, accountability, cghoice
Our educational system must continue
to offer parents a choice, make ourschools more accountable
soem iwll go into medicicne
there service to others will be your hallmark,
but whatever you choose give it your very best shot
I do not like the words I have written needs some speechwriter tyouch,
but I prefer something liek thsi to the Studebaketr bit
gb.
maybe could use a little more
line or two more on
strengthening the family
as we face new therats, narcotics etc,
I become more certain that the answer to our problems can be founf inthe
strength of the AZmerican Family. I will do nothing as Presdietn
to weaken the fmaily. I will do everything I can , excellence
in education, fighting narcotis, to strengthen the family and em-hasize
family values
(more poetry though)
Document No.
034356SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 2:00 PM
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
N/C
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN n/c
STUDDERT N/C
BATES N/C
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 2:00 PM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(McNally/Dooley)
May 8, 1989
5:30 p.m.
Draft One
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.) )
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
When Air Force One. landed, Walter sent an assistant out to
meet us. The Alcorn ((ALL-CORN)) aide was nervous and blurted
out the ten scariest words in the English language: ((PAUSE))
"I come from Washington -- and I'm here to help you. "
thank you
importicular for your time work
Good morning to you all A President Washington ^ respected here at
Alcom,
faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional delegation --
the families and friends and fans of these students -- and most
of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
2
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
while
Although 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- only three percent hold blue collar jobs
themselves. lmost 90 all percent go on to professional or
managerial positions. Ninety five percent work in interracial
In many cases they
settings and many are the first blacks to hold those particular
positions. It's an exciting tradition -- and one of the most
under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
in
with me at the White House to talk about how the Administration
can best support this unique tradition.
3
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates will are
soon be joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent. and diversity. And
that's not idle talk. Last month's Order also directed that the
federal personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment
at Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer
positions, to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
I've signed an order bringing
program. Well, another fresh initiative calls for $60 million in
new funds over the next four years to boost the endowment
matching grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
first mearned an 'A' rating
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn won full as an accredited
seven mile
college.
accreditation. And that was the year "The Stretch" ((ALCORN'S
n
4
SEVEN-MILE ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved -- a milestone that
was resoundingly cheered by the graduating class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
Oakland
comfortably in the old Chapel the Chapel built in another time
by slaves for the white gentry of Mississippi.
Like my classmates in Connecticut, most many of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
5
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
serving
service to others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education. "
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
old
alitHebit the
as your a football coach put it's it -- "the air is a cleaner, grass IS a little bit
the
little bit
greener, a water sweeter just a little bit closer to heaven."
This place has character -- it is a university with a mission.
And to paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this
month, this special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath
your wings. " For you -- and for young Americans graduating all
across our country this month -- it is time for you to take that
wind and soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
6
a new b reeze is
But politics is hardly the only arena where the winds of
change are blowing. When I got out of college, Barbara and I
piled into an old Studebaker with our young son and went to Texas
to learn the oil business. Before long we started a company --
made a little money -- but the bigger reward was building
something on my own. And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
7
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
1988
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's most recent yearbook
was dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what
he taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every
day to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 10, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON cw
FROM:
EDWARD E. McNALLY EMN
SUBJECT:
ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
I. SUMMARY
Attached for your consideration and review are draft remarks
for your commencement address at Alcorn State University on
Saturday.
II. DISCUSSION
At 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, 1989, you are scheduled
to join Dr. Walter Washington (president of Alcorn State
University) to address Alcorn's graduating class of approximately
350 students. An audience of approximately 7,000 persons is
expected in the field house of the Health, Physical Education &
Recreation Complex.
Dr. Washington (who met with you here as part of the
leadership group from Historically Black Colleges and
Universities in January at the O.E.O.B. and again in April in the
Rose Garden) has been president at Alcorn for the past 20 years.
(McNally/Dooley)
May 10, 1989
9:25 a.m.
Draft Two
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
( (DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.))
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
Good morning to you all and thank you -- President
Washington, in particular for your fine work here at Alcorn,
respected faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional
delegation -- the families and friends and fans of these students
-- and most of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
2
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
While 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- almost all go on to professional or
managerial positions. In many cases they are the first blacks to
hold those particular positions. It's an exciting tradition --
and one of the most under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me to talk about how the Administration can best support
this unique tradition.
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates are
joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
3
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent. And that's not idle
talk. Last month's Order also directed that the federal
personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment at
Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer positions,
to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Well, I've signed an order bringing $60 million in new
funds over the next four years to boost the endowment matching
grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn first earned an
"A" rating as an accredited college. And that was the year "The
Seven Mile Stretch" ((ALCORN'S ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved
-- a milestone that was resoundingly cheered by the graduating
class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the Oakland Chapel.
4
Like my classmates in Connecticut, many of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
5
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
serving others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your old football coach put it -- "the air is a little bit
cleaner, the grass is a little bit greener, the water is a little
bit sweeter.
it's just a little bit closer to heaven. " This
place has character -- it is a university with a mission. And to
paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this month, this
special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath your wings." "
For you -- and for young Americans graduating all across our
country this month -- it is time for you to take that wind and
soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
But politics is hardly the only arena where a new breeze is
blowing. When I got out of college, I piled everything I had
into an old Studebaker and went to Texas to learn the oil
business. Before long we started a company -- made a little
money -- but the bigger reward was building something on my own.
And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
6
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's 1988 yearbook was
dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what he
7
taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every day
to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
FACT-CHECKING CHANGES
(McNally/Dooley)
May 8, 1989
5:30 p.m.
Draft One
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
( (DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU. ))
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
arguing over -or
Ed+I were
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
When Air Force One landed, Walter sent an assistant out to
factuallyNo
should be
nota
meet us. The Alcorn (ALL-CORN) aide was nervous and blurted
out the ten scariest words in the English language: ((PAUSE))
the VP of the SC hool
Thout.... Pinkerton one Air correct is Force meeting One) I wants
"I come from Washington -- and I'm here to help you.
asked if we had any
language praisin Pres.
Good morning to you all -- President Washington, respected Washington
it's his 20th
faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional delegation -- year as
the families and friends and fans of these students -- and most Pres. + he 's
really done
of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
a lot for
they're
very bout the
the school
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud Ed said it's
sensitive ing th
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for your call.
name
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
2
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
X
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
]
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
Although 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- only three percent hold blue-collar jobs
themselves. Almost 90 percent go on to professional or
managerial positions. Ninety-five percent work in interracial
settings -- and many are the first blacks to hold those
positions. It's an exciting tradition -- and one of the most
under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President --- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
in
compound Cactually at EOB)
with me at the White House to talk about how the Administration
can best support this unique tradition.
3
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
X
are
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates will
soon be joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent and diversity. And
that's not idle talk. Last month's Order also directed that the
federal personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment
at Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer
positions, to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Well, another fresh initiative calls for $60 million in
new funds over the next four years to boost the endowment
matching grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
x
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn won full
X
accreditation. And that was the year "The Stretch" ((ALCORN'S
Seven Mile-
first earned an "A" rating
as an accredited college.
4
SEVEN MILE ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved -- a milestone that
was resoundingly cheered by the graduating class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
Oakland
X
comfortably in the old Chapel. -- the Chapel built in another time
by slaves for the white gentry of Mississippi.
X
Like my classmates in Connecticut, most many of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop. "
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
5
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values --- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
X
service serving to others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough." "
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
X as your hold football coach put lit's it -- "the air is / cleaner, grass is a little bit
little bit the
the little bit
x
greener, water/ sweeter X just a little bit closer to heaven."
This place has character -- it is a university with a mission.
And to paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this
month, this special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath
your wings." For you -- and for young Americans graduating all
across our country this month -- it is time for you to take that
wind and soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
6
But politics is hardly the only arena where the winds of
X
change are blowing. When I got out of college, Barbara and I
everything I had
piled into an old Studebaker with our young son and went to Texas
to learn the oil business. Before long we started a company --
made a little money -- but the bigger reward was building
something on my own. [And creating 215 jobs for 215 families. Mark MeIntyre,
According to
who wrote the
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America speech
am this #
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn comes from,
215 is from
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on Bush himself.
first.
We've never
been able to
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and source it-
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
7
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
X
1988
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's most recent yearbook
was dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what
he taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every
rk
day to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
Document No.
034356SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/8/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 2:00 PM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
ACTION FYI
ACTION.FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 2:00 PM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
no comments
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(McNally/Dooley)
May 8, 1989
5:30 p.m.
Draft One
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.))
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
When Air Force One. landed, Walter sent an assistant out to
meet us. The Alcorn ((ALL-CORN)) aide was nervous and blurted
out the ten scariest words in the English language: ((PAUSE))
"I come from Washington -- and I'm here to help you."
Good morning to you all -- President Washington, respected
faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional delegation --
the families and friends and fans of these students -- and most
of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
2
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
Although 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- only three percent hold blue-collar jobs
themselves. Almost 90 percent go on to professional or
managerial positions. Ninety-five percent work in interracial
settings -- and many are the first blacks to hold those
positions. It's an exciting tradition -- and one of the most
under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me at the White House to talk about how the Administration
can best support this unique tradition.
3
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates will
soon be joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent and diversity. And
that's not idle talk. Last month's Order also directed that the
federal personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment
at Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer
positions, to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Well, another fresh initiative calls for $60 million in
new funds over the next four years to boost the endowment
matching grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn won full
accreditation. And that was the year "The Stretch" ((ALCORN'S
4
SEVEN-MILE ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved -- a milestone that
was resoundingly cheered by the graduating class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the old Chapel -- the Chapel built in another time
by slaves for the white gentry of Mississippi.
Like my classmates in Connecticut, most of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
5
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
service to others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your football coach put it -- "the air is cleaner, grass
greener, water sweeter -- just a little bit closer to heaven. II
This place has character -- it is a university with a mission.
And to paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this
month, this special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath
your wings. " For you -- and for young Americans graduating all
across our country this month -- it is time for you to take that
wind and soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
6
But politics is hardly the only arena where the winds of
change are blowing. When I got out of college, Barbara and I
piled into an old Studebaker with our young son and went to Texas
to learn the oil business. Before long we started a company --
made a little money -- but the bigger reward was building
something on my own. And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
7
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's most recent yearbook
was dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what
he taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every
day to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
6
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
But politics is hardly the only arena where a new breeze is
blowing. Some of you will land in business -- maybe even start a
business -- where you can create jobs, adding to the opportunity
of other Americans. That's public service, too.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
the next generation
"
Others will teach and put wind beneath the wings of others,
Your touchstones should be excellence, accountability and
quality in education
choice. The system must offer parents a choice MAN Alcorn is a
But
also
good example, of quality choice -- and our schools must be more
accountable, and those of you who will know the juy of
Others are headed for health care, agriculture, journalism,
the professions. Whatever you choose, it is within you to change
the world -- and any definition of a successful life must include
serving others.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
belping a chied learn, are an umpor tant part
of that responsablety.
Document No.
034356SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 2:00 PM
DATE:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 2:00 PM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE: Oh
618W
5/8
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 9, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
DEPUTY ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
FOR COMMUNICATIONS
FROM:
PATRICIA MACK BRYAN PMB
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks Alcon State University
Commencement
Pursuant to James W. Cicconi's staffing memorandum of May 8,
1989, Counsel's Office has reviewed the above-referenced remarks
and has no legal objection to them. However, while we ultimately
defer to your judgment as to the message and tone to be conveyed,
we do suggest the following statements be deleted.
Page 2, Full Paragraph 2, Sentence 3: The phrase "Ninety-five
percent work in interracial settings."
Page 4, Full Paragraph 1: The phrase "the Chapel built in
another time by slaves for the white gentry of Mississippi."
CC: James W. Cicconi
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 9, 1989
MEMORANDUM TO CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
JIM PINKERTON
&
SUBJECT:
Alcorn State Univ. Commencement Speech Draft
Pg. 1, para. 2, line 2 "I'm come from Washington -- and I'm
here to help you. " This pun may be funny to white audiences, but
we suspect it will fall very flat here.
2,3,3
"
only 3 percent hold blue-collar jobs themselves."
This diminishes the value of blue-collar jobs. We suggest
omitting the statistics referring to blue-collar jobs and putting
the thought more positively by saying: "Most United Negro
College Fund alumni move up to better jobs. Almost 90 percent go
on to professional or managerial positions."
3,2,4
"America needs your talent and diversity." The way the
sentence reads makes it seem as if each individual is "diverse,"
whereas the thought behind the words is that America will be
better because of the diversity of its population. Thus, we
suggest something like "America needs you for your talent.
National greatness comes from different people coming together
for common purposes."
3,3,3
The President's leadership needs to be emphasized
here: Instead of saying " another fresh initiative calls for
$60 million in new funds " we suggest: " I've signed
another initiative that provides for $60 million in new
funds "
6,1,1
"But politics is hardly the only arena where the winds
of change are blowing. While we've used the "winds of change"
line before, it is most famous historically as the phrase Harold
MacMillan used to describe the de-colonization of the British
Empire. We still prefer the President's own Inaugural phrase, "a
New Breeze is blowing,' which serves the same rhetorical purpose,
is less derivative, and therefore more associated with him.
#
Document No.
034356SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 5/8/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
5/9/89 2:00 PM
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than 2:00 PM, Tuesday, May 9, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
no Comment
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(McNally/Dooley)
May 8, 1989
5:30 p.m.
Draft One
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
( (DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.) )
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
When Air Force One. landed, Walter sent an assistant out to
meet us. The Alcorn ((ALL-CORN)) aide was nervous and blurted
out the ten scariest words in the English language: ((PAUSE))
"I come from Washington -- and I'm here to help you."
Good morning to you all -- President Washington, respected
faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional delegation --
the families and friends and fans of these students -- and most
of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
2
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
Although 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- only three percent hold blue-collar jobs
themselves. Almost 90 percent go on to professional or
managerial positions. Ninety-five percent work in interracial
settings -- and many are the first blacks to hold those
positions. It's an exciting tradition -- and one of the most
under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me at the White House to talk about how the Administration
can best support this unique tradition.
3
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates will
soon be joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent and diversity. And
that's not idle talk. Last month's Order also directed that the
federal personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment
at Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer
positions, to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Well, another fresh initiative calls for $60 million in
new funds over the next four years to boost the endowment
matching grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn won full
accreditation. And that was the year "The Stretch" ((ALCORN'S
4
SEVEN-MILE ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved -- a milestone that
was resoundingly cheered by the graduating class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the old Chapel -- the Chapel built in another time
by slaves for the white gentry of Mississippi.
Like my classmates in Connecticut, most of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
5
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
service to others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your football coach put it -- "the air is cleaner, grass
greener, water sweeter -- just a little bit closer to heaven." "
This place has character -- it is a university with a mission.
And to paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this
month, this special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath
your wings. " For you -- and for young Americans graduating all
across our country this month -- it is time for you to take that
wind and soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
6
But politics is hardly the only arena where the winds of
change are blowing. When I got out of college, Barbara and I
piled into an old Studebaker with our young son and went to Texas
to learn the oil business. Before long we started a company --
made a little money -- but the bigger reward was building
something on my own. And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
7
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's most recent yearbook
was dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what
he taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every
day to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
(McNally/Dooley)
May 8, 1989
5:30 p.m.
Draft One
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU.) )
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
When Air Force One landed, Walter sent an assistant out to
meet us. The Alcorn ((ALL-CORN)) aide was nervous and blurted
out the ten scariest words in the English language: ((PAUSE))
"I come from Washington -- and I'm here to help you.
Good morning to you all -- President Washington, respected
faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional delegation --
the families and friends and fans of these students -- and most
of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
2
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
Although 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- only three percent hold blue-collar jobs
themselves. Almost 90 percent go on to professional or
managerial positions. Ninety-five percent work in interracial
settings -- and many are the first blacks to hold those
positions. It's an exciting tradition -- and one of the most
under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me at the White House to talk about how the Administration
can best support this unique tradition.
3
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates will
soon be joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent and diversity. And
that's not idle talk. Last month's Order also directed that the
federal personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment
at Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer
positions, to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Well, another fresh initiative calls for $60 million in
new funds over the next four years to boost the endowment
matching grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn won full
accreditation. And that was the year "The Stretch" ((ALCORN'S
4
SEVEN-MILE ENTRANCE ROAD)) was finally paved -- a milestone that
was resoundingly cheered by the graduating class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the old Chapel -- the Chapel built in another time
by slaves for the white gentry of Mississippi.
Like my classmates in Connecticut, most of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
5
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
service to others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough."
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education."
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your football coach put it -- "the air is cleaner, grass
greener, water sweeter -- just a little bit closer to heaven."
This place has character -- it is a university with a mission.
And to paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this
month, this special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath
your wings. " For you -- and for young Americans graduating all
across our country this month -- it is time for you to take that
wind and soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
6
But politics is hardly the only arena where the winds of
change are blowing. When I got out of college, Barbara and I
piled into an old Studebaker with our young son and went to Texas
to learn the oil business. Before long we started a company --
made a little money -- but the bigger reward was building
something on my own. And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
7
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's most recent yearbook
was dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what
he taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every
day to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL
INTRODUCE YOU.))
THANK YOU, DOCTOR. THANK YOU. ((PAUSE))
You KNOW, LAST MONTH WE COMMEMORATED THE
BICENTENNIAL OF THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY.
- 2 -
AND WALTER, I HAVE TO TELL YOU -- AFTER ALL THESE
ACTORS IN POWDERED WIGS -- IT'S A RELIEF TO FINALLY
STAND BESIDE SOMEONE WHO REALLY IS "PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON."
GOOD MORNING TO YOU ALL AND THANK YOU, PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON, IN PARTICULAR, FOR THE FINE WORK BY YOU AND
YOUR FACULTY HERE AT ALCORN ((ALL-CORN)).
- 3 -
It's ALWAYS GOOD TO SEE THAD AND TRENT, YOUR ABLE
SENATORS, MY GOOD FRIEND SONNY AND OTHERS IN
MISSISSIPPI'S DISTINGUISHED CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION.
CONGRATULATIONS ALSO TO THE FAMILIES AND FRIENDS AND
FANS OF THESE STUDENTS -- AND, MOST OF ALL: THE ALCORN
STATE UNIVERSITY CLASS OF '89.
FOR FOUR YEARS, TODAY'S SENIORS HAVE BEEN PART OF
THE PROUD TRADITION THEY CALL "THE ALCORN FAMILY." AND
THIS IS A DAY FOR THE FAMILY.
- 4 -
BUT IT'S YOUR OWN INDIVIDUAL FAMILIES -- THE MOTHERS
AND FATHERS AND GRANDPARENTS GATHERED HERE -- THAT I
WANT TO CONGRATULATE FIRST. IN A VERY PRIVATE WAY,
YOUR YEARS OF HARD WORK, SACRIFICE, AND YES, LOVE FOR
YOUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS HAVE BROUGHT THIS MOMENT TO
PASS. You DESERVE THE FIRST ROUND OF APPLAUSE.
- 5 -
THE AMERICAN FAMILY HAS BEEN UNDER SIEGE IN RECENT
TIMES. BUT, AS THE MONTHS UNFOLD, I BECOME MORE AND
MORE CERTAIN THAT THE ANSWER TO OUR PROBLEMS CAN BE
FOUND IN THE STRENGTH OF THE AMERICAN FAMILY. LOOKING
AROUND THIS ROOM, YOU CAN FEEL THE PRIDE. IT'S A
POWERFUL FORCE FOR GOOD.
- 6 -
AND AS PRESIDENT, I WILL DO EVERYTHING I CAN To PROMOTE
THE FAMILY -- EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION -- TO PROTECT THE
FAMILY -- IN THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS -- AND TO REAFFIRM
THE FAMILY VALUES THAT BROUGHT YOUR KIDS THROUGH THESE
FOUR CHALLENGING YEARS.
FOR SOME AMERICAN FAMILIES -- THOSE FORTUNATE
FAMILIES WHERE CHILDREN ARE RAISED ASSUMING THEY WILL
HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO TO COLLEGE -- THE DRAMA OF
TODAY'S CEREMONY IS DIFFICULT TO APPRECIATE.
- 7 -
MANY OF YOU ARE THE FIRST IN YOUR FAMILIES EVER TO
ATTEND COLLEGE -- LET ALONE STAY THE COURSE TO
GRADUATE.
AND THE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION WROUGHT BY
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES SUCH AS ALCORN IS NOTHING
LESS THAN ASTOUNDING: WHILE 85 PERCENT OF UNITED NEGRO
COLLEGE FUND ALUMNI COME FROM BLUE-COLLAR FAMILIES --
ALMOST ALL GO ON TO PROFESSIONAL OR MANAGERIAL
POSITIONS.
- 8 -
IN MANY CASES THEY ARE THE FIRST BLACKS TO HOLD THOSE
PARTICULAR POSITIONS. IT'S AN EXCITING TRADITION --
AND ONE OF THE MOST UNDER-APPRECIATED SUCCESS STORIES
IN AMERICA.
It's ALSO A TRADITION THAT'S CLOSE TO MY HEART.
WHEN I WAS A COLLEGE SENIOR IN 1948, BARBARA AND I
BEGAN PARTICIPATING IN THE UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND.
IN THE FORTY YEARS SINCE, WE'VE CONTINUED TO DO OUR
SMALL PART ALONG THE WAY.
- 9 -
AND EVEN BEFORE BECOMING PRESIDENT -- BACK IN JANUARY,
ABOUT A WEEK BEFORE THE INAUGURATION -- WALTER
WASHINGTON AND SOME OF HIS COLLEAGUES MET WITH ME TO
TALK ABOUT HOW THE ADMINISTRATION CAN BEST SUPPORT THIS
UNIQUE TRADITION.
- 10 -
SOME GOOD IDEAS CAME OUT OF THAT GATHERING. AND
SEVERAL ARE ALREADY IN EFFECT -- BEGUN LAST MONTH WHEN
WALTER AND OTHERS JOINED ME IN THE ROSE GARDEN TO
LAUNCH THE PRESIDENT'S BOARD OF ADVISORS ON
HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.
Now, I UNDERSTAND THAT SEVERAL OF TODAY'S GRADUATES
ARE JOINING ME IN FEDERAL SERVICE -- IN AGRICULTURE,
DEFENSE, TRANSPORTATION AND OTHER CRITICAL AREAS.
- 11 -
I'M PROUD OF YOU -- WE WELCOME YOU -- AMERICA NEEDS
YOUR TALENT. AND THAT'S NOT IDLE TALK. LAST MONTH'S
ORDER ALSO DIRECTED THAT THE FEDERAL PERSONNEL OFFICE
DEVELOP A PROGRAM TO IMPROVE RECRUITMENT AT ALCORN AND
SIMILAR COLLEGES FOR PART-TIME AND SUMMER POSITIONS, TO
HELP GET YOU STARTED IN FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICE.
I ALSO UNDERSTAND THAT A CAMPAIGN IS UNDERWAY HERE
NOW TO RAISE HALF A MILLION DOLLARS THROUGH A FEDERAL
CHALLENGE GRANT PROGRAM.
- 12 -
RECENTLY, I SIGNED AN ORDER BRINGING $60 MILLION IN NEW
FUNDS OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS TO BOOST THE ENDOWMENT
MATCHING GRANTS AVAILABLE TO SCHOOLS LIKE ALCORN.
As I TOLD THE COLLEGE PRESIDENTS WHO GATHERED AT
THE WHITE HOUSE LAST MONTH, THESE NEW INITIATIVES ARE
JUST A START. MORE MUST BE DONE.
- 13 -
BUT ON A DAY LIKE TODAY, THERE IS MUCH OF WHICH WE
CAN BE PROUD. JUST AS I HAVE COVERED A FAIR PIECE OF
GROUND SINCE MY OWN DAYS AS A COLLEGE SENIOR, so TOO
HAS ALCORN COME A LONG WAY SINCE 1948. THAT WAS THE
LANDMARK YEAR ALCORN FIRST EARNED AN "A" RATING AS AN
ACCREDITED COLLEGE. AND THAT WAS THE YEAR "THE
STRETCH" WAS FINALLY PAVED -- A MILESTONE THAT WAS
RESOUNDINGLY CHEERED BY THE GRADUATING CLASS.
- 14 -
THEY WERE ONLY 60 IN NUMBER -- BARELY A FIFTH OF
THE TOTAL RECEIVING DEGREES TODAY -- A CEREMONY SO
SMALL THAT IT FIT COMFORTABLY IN THE OAKLAND CHAPEL.
LIKE MY CLASSMATES IN CONNECTICUT, MANY OF THE MEN
AT ALCORN IN 1948 WERE VETERANS, SOLDIERS WHO HAD
FOUGHT FOR DEMOCRACY WHILE SERVING IN SEGREGATED UNITS.
AND LIKE MANY OF YOU TODAY, THE ALCORNITES OF 1948 WERE
GRADUATING WITH SKILLS THAT WOULD ENABLE THEM TO FEED
THE HUNGRY, NURSE THE SICK, AND TEACH THE YOUNG.
- 15 -
FUTURE PITTSBURGH STEELER JACK SPINKS -- THE FIRST
BLACK PRO ATHLETE TO COME OUT OF MISSISSIPPI -- WAS
GETTING READY TO START HIS FRESHMAN YEAR. HE WOULD
SOON BE PRACTICING IN A RAMSHACKLE WOODEN BUILDING THAT
EVERYONE CALLED THE "OLD CHICKEN COOP." JACK SAYS THAT
WHEN IT RAINED DURING BASKETBALL GAMES, THE ROOF LEAKED
so BAD PEOPLE HAD TO KEEP THEIR UMBRELLAS OPEN. THE
MODERN FIELD HOUSE IN WHICH WE'RE GATHERED TODAY WAS
THEN NOT EVEN A DREAM.
- 16 -
AND JACK IS SOMEWHERE OUT THERE TODAY -- AND I
UNDERSTAND HIS YOUNGEST SON IS PART OF THE GRADUATING
CLASS.
THE FORTY YEARS OF SCHOOLING THAT SEPARATE JACK AND
HIS SON EMBRACE AN ERA OF TREMENDOUS CHANGE -- FOR
ALCORN, AND FOR AMERICA -- A TIME OF UPHEAVAL, AND
FINALLY, A TIME OF GROWTH AND MAYBE SOMETHING LIKE
WISDOM.
- 17 -
NOT EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED. THE THREADS WOVEN
THROUGH THE FABRIC OF ALCORN -- AND ANY PLACE WHERE
EXCELLENCE IS SOUGHT -- ARE WHAT USED TO BE CALLED
SIMPLE FAMILY VALUES. WE'RE NOT TALKING ABOUT TWO SETS
OF VALUES -- FAMILY VALUES ARE THE SAME FOR BLACK AND
WHITE. AND THEY ARE NOT COMPLICATED. HONESTY. FAITH.
FRUGALITY. ACCEPTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY. THE
IMPORTANCE OF WORK. A TRADITION OF HELPING ONE'S
NEIGHBORS.
- 18 -
MARTIN LUTHER KING ARGUED THAT "INTELLIGENCE IS NOT
ENOUGH." HE SAID: "INTELLIGENCE PLUS CHARACTER --
THAT IS THE GOAL OF TRUE EDUCATION."
WELL, YOU AT ALCORN ARE LUCKY. ALCORN IS A PLACE
WHERE -- AS YOUR OLD FOOTBALL COACH PUT IT -- "THE AIR
IS A LITTLE BIT CLEANER, THE GRASS IS A LITTLE BIT
GREENER, THE WATER IS A LITTLE BIT SWEETER. . .IT'S
JUST A LITTLE BIT CLOSER TO HEAVEN." THIS PLACE HAS
CHARACTER -- IT IS A UNIVERSITY WITH A MISSION.
- 19 -
AND TO PARAPHRASE A NEW SONG THAT'S CLIMBING THE CHARTS
THIS MONTH, THIS SPECIAL, SECLUDED COLLEGE HAS BEEN
"THE WIND BENEATH YOUR WINGS." FOR YOU -- AND FOR
YOUNG AMERICANS GRADUATING ALL ACROSS OUR COUNTRY THIS
MONTH -- IT IS TIME FOR YOU TO TAKE THAT WIND AND SOAR.
FOR SOME OF YOU, I HOPE THERE COMES A DAY WHEN YOU
RIDE THOSE WINDS INTO THE POLITICAL ARENA, TO FIGHT FOR
WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN, TO GRAPPLE NOT ONLY WITH YOUR OWN
DREAMS, BUT ALSO THOSE OF YOUR COUNTRYMEN.
- 20 -
BUT POLITICS IS HARDLY THE ONLY ARENA WHERE A NEW
BREEZE IS BLOWING. SOME OF YOU WILL LAND IN BUSINESS -
- MAYBE EVEN START A BUSINESS -- WHERE YOU CAN CREATE
JOBS, ADDING TO THE OPPORTUNITY OF OTHER AMERICANS.
THAT'S PUBLIC SERVICE, TOO.
Now, BUSINESS CAN BE PRETTY ROUGH AND TUMBLE. BUT
AMERICA IS SUCCESSFUL BECAUSE WE ARE A NATION OF RISK-
TAKERS. THE ALCORN BRAVES KNOW THAT YOU CAN'T STEAL
SECOND BASE AND KEEP ONE FOOT ON FIRST.
- 21 -
OTHERS WILL TEACH THE NEXT GENERATION, AND PUT
"WIND BENEATH THEIR WINGS." YOUR TOUCHSTONES SHOULD BE
EXCELLENCE, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CHOICE. THE SYSTEM
MUST OFFER PARENTS QUALITY CHOICE IN EDUCATION. ALCORN
IS A GOOD EXAMPLE. BUT OUR SCHOOLS MUST ALSO BE MORE
ACCOUNTABLE AND THOSE OF YOU WHO WILL KNOW THE JOY OF
HELPING A CHILD LEARN, ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THAT
RESPONSIBILITY.
- 22 -
OTHERS ARE HEADED FOR HEALTH CARE, AGRICULTURE,
JOURNALISM, THE PROFESSIONS. WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE, IT
IS WITHIN YOU TO CHANGE THE WORLD -- AND ANY DEFINITION
OF A SUCCESSFUL LIFE MUST INCLUDE SERVING OTHERS.
22A
As EACH OF YOU BEGINS A NEW LIFE TODAY, YOU MAY
FAIRLY ASK? WILL MY FUTURE BE SECURE? THIS IS NOT
JUST A DOMESTIC QUESTION. IT IS A FOREIGN POLICY
QUESTION.
FOR THE PAST FORTY YEARS, THE UNITED STATES AND THE
SOVIET UNION HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN A STRUGGLE -- BECAUSE
THE SOVIETS HAVE CHOSEN TO STAND APART FROM -- AND
OPPOSED TO -- THE WORLD FAMILY OF NATIONS.
22B
YESTERDAY, I ANNOUNCED A NEW POLICY FOR THE
1990s -- ONE THAT MOVES BEYOND CONTAINMENT OF THE
SOVIET UNION. THIS NEW POLICY SETS A GOAL OF BRINGING
THE SOVIET UNION INTO THE WORLD COMMUNITY. AND IF WE
SUCCEED, THE FUTURE YOU WILL KNOW WILL BE SAFER, AND
THE WORLD YOU WILL KNOW WILL BE FREER.
22C
As THE SOVIET UNION MOVES TOWARD GREATER OPENNESS AND
DEMOCRATIZATION -- AS THEY MEET THE CHALLENGE OF
RESPONSIBLE INTERNATIONAL BEHAVIOR -- WE WILL MATCH
THEIR STEPS WITH STEPS OF OUR OWN.
- 23 -
TODAY, EVERY SENIOR HERE IS AN EDUCATED MAN OR
WOMAN, PROUD AND SELF-ASSURED. WITH ALL THE COCKINESS
OF YOUTH, SOME OF YOU -- I HOPE MOST OF YOU -- MUST BE
FEELING TODAY LIKE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
- 24 -
WELL, TRUST THOSE INSTINCTS. EVERYONE HAS A DREAM.
AND EVERYONE HAS SOMETHING TO GIVE.
LAST MONTH I SAW A NEW MOVIE -- A MOVIE ABOUT
BASEBALL AND ABOUT FAITH -- IN WHICH BURT LANCASTER
PONDERS THE POWER OF HOPE. HE ASKS: "Is THERE ENOUGH
MAGIC, OUT THERE IN THE MOONLIGHT, TO MAKE THIS DREAM
COME TRUE?"
- 25 -
WELL, I HAVE COME TO MISSISSIPPI TODAY BECAUSE THE
MAGIC OF AMERICA, AND THE MAGIC OF OUR TIMES, MEANS
BELIEVING THAT YOUR BEST DAYS -- THAT OUR BEST DAYS --
ARE STILL TO COME. BORN IN AN ERA OF PEACE AND
EDUCATED IN TIMES OF RELATIVE PROSPERITY, YOUR
GENERATION CAN LOOK TO A NEW CENTURY RICH WITH
UNIMAGINABLE OPPORTUNITIES.
- 26 -
YES, THERE IS ENOUGH MAGIC OUT THERE -- ENOUGH FOR
ALL AMERICANS. AND YES, YOU CAN SEIZE THAT MAGIC WITH
THE POWER OF YOUR OWN HANDS -- AND WITH THE SKILLS
BEQUEATHED YOU BY THIS SPECIAL COLLEGE. AND YES, JUST
AS ALCORN'S 1988 YEARBOOK WAS DEDICATED TO DR. KING,
YOU CAN HONOR HIS MEMORY BY DOING WHAT HE TAUGHT US ALL
TO DO -- TO HAVE A DREAM -- AND TO WORK EVERY DAY TO
MAKE THAT DREAM COME TRUE.
- 27 -
AMERICA IS PROUD OF YOU AND THE FAMILIES YOU
REPRESENT. GOD BLESS YOU IN THE CHALLENGES TO COME.
AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES.
#
#
#
Document No. 034356
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
05/10/89
----
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
(05/10 9:25a.m. draft 2)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
>
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
F
STUDDERT
A
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
WINSTON
à
CICCONI
f
PINKERTON
\
DEMAREST
P
FITZWATER
R
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
1980
THE WHITE HOUSE
MAY
10
WASHINGTON
Pip
May 10, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON cw
FROM:
EDWARD E. McNALLY EMN
SUBJECT:
ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
I. SUMMARY
Attached for your consideration and review are draft remarks
for your commencement address at Alcorn State University on
Saturday.
II. DISCUSSION
At 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 13, 1989, you are scheduled
to join Dr. Walter Washington (president of Alcorn State
University) to address Alcorn's graduating class of approximately
350 students. An audience of approximately 7,000 persons is
expected in the field house of the Health, Physical Education &
Recreation Complex.
Dr. Washington (who met with you here as part of the
leadership group from Historically Black Colleges and
Universities in January at the O.E.O.B. and again in April in the
Rose Garden) has been president at Alcorn for the past 20 years.
(McNally/Dooley)
May 10, 1989
9:25 a.m.
Draft Two
(ALCORN)
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: ALCORN ST. UNIV. COMMENCEMENT
LORMAN, MISSISSIPPI
SATURDAY, MAY 13, 1989
11:00 A.M.
((DR. WALTER WASHINGTON, ALCORN'S PRESIDENT, WILL INTRODUCE
YOU. ))
Thank you, Doctor. Thank you. ((PAUSE))
You know, last month we commemorated the bicentennial of the
American presidency. And Walter, I have to tell you -- after all
these actors in powdered wigs -- it's a relief to finally stand
beside someone who really is "President Washington."
Good morning to you all and thank you -- President
Washington, in particular for your fine work here at Alcorn,
respected faculty, Mississippi's distinguished congressional
delegation -- the families and friends and fans of these students
-- and most of all: The Alcorn State University Class of '89.
For four years, today's seniors have been part of the proud
tradition they call "the Alcorn family." And this is a day for
the family. But it's your own individual families -- the mothers
and fathers and grandparents gathered here -- that I want to
congratulate first. In a very private way, your years of hard
work, sacrifice, and yes, love for your sons and daughters have
brought this moment to pass. You deserve the first round of
applause.
2
For many American families -- those fortunate families where
children are raised assuming they will have the opportunity to go
to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first in your families ever to
attend college -- let alone stay the course to graduate.
And the economic transformation wrought by historically
black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than astounding:
While 85 percent of United Negro College Fund alumni come from
blue-collar families -- almost all go on to professional or
managerial positions. In many cases they are the first blacks to
hold those particular positions. It's an exciting tradition --
and one of the most under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that's close to my heart. When I was
a college senior in 1948, Barbara and I began participating in
the United Negro College Fund. In the forty years since, we've
continued to do our small part along the way. And even before
becoming President -- back in January, about a week before the
Inauguration -- Walter Washington and some of his colleagues met
with me to talk about how the Administration can best support
this unique tradition.
Some good ideas came out of that gathering. And several are
already in effect -- begun last month when Walter and others
joined me in the Rose Garden to launch the President's Board of
Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Now, I understand that several of today's graduates are
joining me in federal service -- in agriculture, defense,
3
transportation and other critical areas. I'm proud of you -- we
welcome you -- America needs your talent. And that's not idle
talk. Last month's Order also directed that the federal
personnel office develop a program to improve recruitment at
Alcorn and similar colleges for part-time and summer positions,
to help get you started in the federal public service.
I also understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Well, I've signed an order bringing $60 million in new
funds over the next four years to boost the endowment matching
grants available to schools like Alcorn.
Now, as I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start.
More must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Just as I have covered a fair piece of ground since my
own days as a college senior, so too has Alcorn come a long way
since 1948. That was the landmark year Alcorn first earned an
"A" rating as an accredited college. And that was the year "The
Seven Mile Stretch" ((ALCORN'S ENTRANCE ROAD) ) was finally paved
-- a milestone that was resoundingly cheered by the graduating
class.
They were only 60 in number -- barely a fifth of the total
receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably in the Oakland Chapel.
4
Like my classmates in Connecticut, many of the men at Alcorn
in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
while serving in segregated units. And like many of you today,
the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and teach the
young.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black pro
athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop."
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was then not
even a dream. And Jack is somewhere out there today -- and I
understand his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
The forty years of schooling that separate Jack and his son
embrace an era of tremendous change -- for Alcorn, and for
America -- a time of upheaval, and finally, a time of growth and
maybe something like wisdom.
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through the
fabric of Alcorn -- and any place where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not
talking about two sets of values -- family values are the same
for black and white. And they are not complicated. Honesty.
Faith. Frugality. Acceptance of responsibility. The importance
of work. A tradition of helping one's neighbors. And, as I have
5
said before, any definition of a successful life must include
serving others.
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not enough. "
He said: "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal of
true education. "
Well, you at Alcorn are lucky. Alcorn is a place where --
as your old football coach put it -- "the air is a little bit
cleaner, the grass is a little bit greener, the water is a little
bit sweeter.
it's just a little bit closer to heaven. " This
place has character -- it is a university with a mission. And to
paraphrase a new song that's climbing the charts this month, this
special, secluded college has been "the wind beneath your wings. "
For you -- and for young Americans graduating all across our
country this month -- it is time for you to take that wind and
soar.
For some of you, I hope there comes a day when you ride
those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also
those of your countrymen.
But politics is hardly the only arena where a new breeze is
blowing. When I got out of college, I piled everything I had
into an old Studebaker and went to Texas to learn the oil
business. Before long we started a company -- made a little
money -- but the bigger reward was building something on my own.
And creating 215 jobs for 215 families.
6
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But America
is successful because we are a nation of risk-takers. The Alcorn
Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot on
first.
Every senior here is an educated man or woman, proud and
self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you -- I
hope most of you -- must be feeling today like anything is
possible.
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream. And
everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie -- a movie about baseball and
about faith -- in which Burt Lancaster ponders the power of hope.
He asks: "Is there enough magic, out there in the moonlight, to
make this dream come true?"
Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic of
America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an
era of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
Yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for all
Americans. And yes, you can seize that magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed you by this
special college. And yes, just as Alcorn's 1988 yearbook was
dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what he
7
taught us all to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every day
to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and the families you represent. God
bless you in the challenges to come. And God bless the United
States.
#
#
#
#618
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
(Lorman, Mississippi)
For Immediate Release
May 13, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY COMMENCEMENT
Alcorn State University
Lorman, Mississippi
11:15 A.M. CDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all, and especially, my thanks
to you, Dr. Washington. You know, last month we commemorated the
bicentennial of the American presidency. And, Walter, I have to tell
you -- after all these actors in powdered wigs -- it is a relief to
stand beside someone who really is "President Washington." (Laughter
and applause.) Good morning.
But to you and your wonderful faculty here at Alcorn, I
just say I am delighted to be here. Incidentally, Dr. Washington's
ears should have been burning because when I road down on the
helicopter from Jackson with the two United States Senators from
Mississippi, they were telling me in considerable detail more than I
knew from my briefing papers of this man's commitment to excellence.
And so I salute him and his service to this wonderful university.
(Applause.)
Lieutenant-Governor Dye, it's a pleasure to be with you,
sir. I'm, of course, delighted that Thad Cochran and Trent Lott are
with us today, a tribute to all here. I'm very pleased that my good
friend, Sonny Montgomery, a Congressman whose home is in Meridian, is
here. We're in Congressman Mike Espy's district, and I salute him.
Congressman Mike Parker is here, and many other distinguished guests.
I also want to say thanks to all of them.
Congratulations also to the families and the friends and
the fans of these students. But I think most of all, to the Alcorn
State University Class of 1989, we salute you and I'm proud to be
with you. (Applause.) You've been part of what they call "the
Alcorn family." And this is a day for the family. But it's your own
individual families -- the mothers and fathers and grandparents
gathered here -- that I want to congratulate. In a very private way,
your years of hard work and your years of sacrifice and, yes, love
for your sons and daughters have brought this moment to pass. And I
think you, really -- although the first round of applause has died
now -- I think you all really deserve the first round of applause.
The (Applause.) parents and the grandparents of the graduates here today.
I know how deadly long graduation speeches can be. I'll
never forget Yale University where I went. A man got up, he says,
"I'm going to give you a brief graduation speech. And I will choose,
because our school has a short name -- Y, Y -- is for youth.' He
went on for about 30 minutes -- "and then it's A, altruism."
(Laughter.) Another 20 -- L, loyalty. Rushed that off in about 18
minutes. And then, of course, E, for excellence. He concluded about
an hour and half after he started. And there was one person left,
his head bent in prayer. And the minister, the speaker, very touched
by it, said, "Well, sir, I see that you are praying for these
values." The man said, "No, no." He said, "I wasn't praying for the
values. I was giving thanks to the Lord that I did not go to Alcorn
State University in Lorman, Mississippi." (Laughter.)
I'll try to be a little more considerate.
MORE
- 2 -
Dr. David Matthews, in his lovely invocation, alluded to
family. He alluded to some of the problems that we face. And the
American family has been under siege in recent times. But as the
months unfold, I've become more and more certain that the answer to
our problems can be found in the strength of the American family.
Looking around this room, you can sense the feeling of pride -- and
it's a powerful force for good. And as President, I will do
everything I can to promote the family excellence in education; to
protect the family, in the fight against narcotics; and to reaffirm
the family values that brought your kids through these four
challenging years. (Applause.)
For some American families those fortunate families
where children are raised assuming that they 11 have the opportunity
to go to college -- the drama of today's ceremony is difficult to
appreciate. Many of you are the first, though, in your families ever
to attend college let alone stay the course through graduation.
And the economic transformation wrought by the
historically black colleges such as Alcorn is nothing less than
astounding: while 85 percent of the United Negro College Fund alumni
come from blue-collar families, almost all go on to professional or
managerial positions. And in many cases, they're the first blacks to
hold these particular positions. It's an exciting tradition -- and
one of the most under-appreciated success stories in America.
It's also a tradition that is close to my heart, because
way back in 1948, when I was a senior at Y-A-L-E, 41 years ago, my
wife, Barbara -- still my wife, Barbara; then she and I had been
married just a few years -- we began participating in the United
Negro College Fund. And in the 40 years since then, we've continued
to try to do our small part. And even before becoming President --
back in January, just a week before the Inauguration -- Dr.
Washington and some of his colleagues came to Washington, D.C., met
with me to talk about how the new administration can best support
this unique tradition.
And some good ideas came out of that gathering. And
several are already in effect -- begun last month in the meeting that
he alluded to when Dr. Washington and others joined me in the Rose
Garden to launch the President's Board of Advisors on Historically
Black Colleges and Universities.
And now, I understand that several of today's graduates
are going to be joining in federal service -- in agriculture,
defense, transportation and other critical areas. And I'm proud of
you, and we welcome you, and we need excellence in federal service.
America needs your talents. And that's not idle talk. Last month's
order also directed that the federal personnel office develop a
program to improve recruitment at Alcorn and similar colleges for
part-time and summer positions, to help people get started in the
concept of federal public service. (Applause.)
And I understand that a campaign is underway here now to
raise a half a million dollars through a federal challenge grant
program. Recently, I signed an order bringing $60 million in new
funds to boost the endowment matching grants available to schools
like Alcorn.
As I told the college presidents who gathered at the
White House last month, these new initiatives are just a start. More
must be done.
But on a day like today, there is much of which we can be
proud. Alcorn has come a long way since 1948. That was the landmark
year that Alcorn first earned its "A" rating as an accredited
college. And that was the year "The Stretch" was finally paved -- a
milestone (Applause.) that was resoundingly cheered by the graduating class.
MORE
- 3 -
Do you know how many graduated back in 1948? Trivial
Pursuit question -- how many? Sixty in number -- barely a fifth of
the total receiving degrees today -- a ceremony so small that it fit
comfortably into the Oakland Chapel.
And like my classmates in Connecticut, many of the men at
Alcorn in 1948 were veterans, soldiers who had fought for democracy
-- many of them serving in segregated units. And like many of you
today, the Alcornites of 1948 were graduating with skills that would
enable them to feed the hungry, nurse the sick, and reach out to help
the young through education.
Future Pittsburgh Steeler Jack Spinks -- the first black
pro athlete to come out of Mississippi -- was getting ready to start
his freshman year. He would soon be practicing in a ramshackle
wooden building that everyone called the "Old Chicken Coop." And
Jack says that when it rained during basketball games, the roof
leaked so bad that people had to keep their umbrellas open. The
modern field house in which we're gathered today was not then even a
dream. And Jack, I am told, is somewhere out here today -- and I
understand (Applause.) that his youngest son is part of the graduating class.
But these 40 years of schooling that separate father and
son -- the years that separate them -- embrace an era of tremendous
change -- for Alcorn and for the United States of America -- a time
wisdom. of upheaval and, finally, a time of growth and maybe something like
Not everything has changed. The threads woven through
the fabric at Alcorn -- and anyplace where excellence is sought --
are what used to be called simple family values. We're not talking
about two sets of values. Family values are the same regardless of
race, color, or creed. Family values -- they're not complicated.
Honesty, faith, frugality, acceptance of responsibility, the
importance of work, a tradition of helping one's neighbor.
MORE
- 4 -
Martin Luther King argued that "intelligence is not
enough." He said, "Intelligence plus character -- that is the goal
of the true education." "
Well, you here at Alcorn are lucky. This is a place
where --- as your old football coach put it -- "the air is a little
bit cleaner, the grass is a little bit greener, and the water is a
little bit sweeter -- it's just a little bit closer to heaven.'
(Applause.) You see, this place has character -- it is a university
with a mission. And to paraphrase a new song that's climbing the
charts this month, this special, secluded college has been "the wind
beneath your wings." And for you -- and for young Americans
graduating all across this country this month -- it is time for you
to take that wind and soar.
And for some of you, I hope there comes a day when you
ride those winds into the political arena, to fight for what you
believe in, to grapple not only with your own dreams, but also those
of your countrymen.
But politics is hardly the only arena where a new breeze
is blowing. Some of you will land in business, maybe even start a
business where you can create jobs adding to the opportunity of other
Americans. And that's public service too.
Now, business can be pretty rough and tumble. But
America is successful because we're a nation of risk-takers. The
Alcorn Braves know that you can't steal second base and keep one foot
on first. That's profound. (Laughter.) Others will teach the next
generation and put wind beneath their wings. Your touch tone should
be excellence, accountability and choice. The system -- the
educational system must offer parents quality choice in education.
Alcorn's a good example. But our schools must also be more
accountable and those of you who will know the joy of helping a child
learn are an important part of that responsibility. Others are
headed for health care, agriculture, journalism, the professions.
Whatever you choose, it is within you to change the world
and any definition of a successful life must, of course, include
serving others. As each of you begins a new life today, you may
fairly ask, will my future be secure? This isn't just a domestic
question. It's a foreign policy question. For the past 40 years,
the United States and the Soviet Union have been engaged in a
struggle because the Soviets have chosen to stand apart from and
opposed to the world family of nations.
Yesterday I announced a new policy for the 1990's, one
that moves beyond our country just trying to contain the Soviet
Union. It sets a goal of bringing the Soviet Union into the world
community, a policy of reintegration if you will. And if we succeed,
I can guarantee to you and your kids that the future you know is
going to be safer and the world you know will be freer. This I see
as a primary objective of any President of the United States of
America. As the Soviet Union moves towards greater openness and
democratization and as they meet the challenge of responsible
international behavior, we will match their steps wi h steps of our
own.
Today, every senior here is an educated man or woman,
proud, self-assured. With all the cockiness of youth, some of you --
I today. hope most of you -- must be feeling like anything is possible
Well, trust those instincts. Everyone has a dream.
Everyone has something to give.
Last month I saw a new movie, maybe some of you all saw
it --- a movie about baseball and about faith -- in which Burt
Lancaster ponders the power of hope. And he asks: "Is there enough
magic out there in the moonlight to make this dream come true?"
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Well, I have come to Mississippi today because the magic
of America, and the magic of our times, means believing that your
best days -- that our best days -- are still to come. Born in an era
of peace and educated in times of relative prosperity, your
generation can look to a new century rich with unimaginable
opportunities.
And yes, there is enough magic out there -- enough for
all Americans. And yes, you can seize the magic with the power of
your own hands -- and with the skills bequeathed to you by this
special university. And yes, just as Alçorn's 1988 yearbook was
dedicated to Dr. King, you can honor his memory by doing what he
taught this nation to do -- to have a dream -- and to work every day
to make that dream come true.
America is proud of you and of your families that you
represent. God bless you in the challenge to come. And God bless
the United States of America. I am honored to be your guest today.
Thank you. (Applause.)
END
11:34 A.M. CDT