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Presidential Scholars 6/20/89
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4
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
June 20, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
The Rose Garden
2:37 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all and welcome to the White
House. Please be seated. Ronna, you're in charge of keeping the
rain off. (Laughter.) Secretary Cavazos and Ronna Romney and
members of the Commission, sponsors, guests, distinguished teachers
House. and Presidential Scholars, let me officially welcome you to the White
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli,
once said "Youth of a nation are the trustees of posterity." And the
poet James Lowell, was moved to write, "If youth be a defect, it is
one we outgrow only too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain
the trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who is a little long in the tooth maybe, but if youth is a
defect, treasure it as many years as you can.
We meet here on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
students in American education.
Scholars Program, and to honor somè of the best and the brightest
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
can bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
education lead the way.
alone, but for nation and neighbor -- learning, caring, helping
I believe in education. And so do you -- for the
evidence is your lives. And you come from backgrounds of every race
and creed, and from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S.
Territories and families living abroad. And you've excelled in the
community service.
classroom and outside it, through leadership, character and, yes,
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your
talents. Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt, of Muncie, Indiana.
He started a Shakespeare Club at his high school. or another
scholar, Clarity Haynes, of Washington, D.C.'s Ellington School of
the Arts. She is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. I'm a little
jealous. Some say I'm not even fluent in English.
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar from
Education can be the greater uplifter -- individually,
Anchorage, Alaska -- I think I see her -- put it best: "An educated
person, she said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise
freedom of mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking. It won't be easy. And
you're right -- there'll be roadblocks along the way. And I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written shortly
before Christmas, the noted scholar teaching at Yale, William Lyons
Phelps, came across this note: "God only knows the answer to this
question. Merry Christmas." (Laughter.) Phelps returned the paper
MORE
- 2 -
Year. with the " annotation: "God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New
(Laughter.)
And as you do, remember that an educated person also has duties and
Roadblocks? Sure. You bet. But you can overcome them.
responsiblities. I've said that in America, the definition of
successful for life must include serving others. Well, that goes double a
you, and you can give them no greater gift than to share your
America's best. Many have labored to share their knowledge with
knowledge with others.
In that spirit, a
and they deserve our thanks.
number of people have brought you here,
Chairman of the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars.
Like Ronna Romney sitting right here,
whom I just met with who chose you, 141 honorees from America's
the Commission sponsors. And let me salute the 47 Commission members And
high-school graduates. But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask
you to thank -- all of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the history instructor who was a friend and mentor; the
And biology teacher who did the impossible -- helped you dissect a frog.
remember the guidance counselor who cared, or the football coach
who gave of his time and of himself as well. And remember those who
love you most and point you toward the stars -- what scholar
success -- my family."
Christine Oh, of Bellville, Georgia has called "the backbone of my
So let me close with a story your family might appreciate about
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day.
learning and teaching and scholars of all ages.
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor
at Gottingen University in Germany when Robert Oppenheimer, then only
23, was being examined for his doctorate. On emerging from the oral
exam, Franck remembered -- this is the professor -- Franck
remembered, "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions." (Laughter.)
Well, in coming years, you'll ask many questions --
questions about your faith and future, problems and priorities, about
what we can become, why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the
people who believe in it and you -- your life-long local minister,
the father who trudged his son to Little League, the mother who
toiled night and day so that her daughter could go to college.
Trust these people.
lives you lead. And as you do,
Make them proud. Honor them by the
remember how their values, which are
world. education's values, can make ours a better, richer, most decent
To every Presidential Scholar, Barbara and I and our
great Secretary Larry Cavazos give you our heartfelt congratulations.
And to all of you here, thank you for coming to the White House. God
bless you and God bless our great country. Thank you all very, very
much. (Applause.)
END
2:44 P.M. EDT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
June 20, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
The Rose Garden
2:37 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all and welcome to the White
House. Please be seated. Ronna, you're in charge of keeping the
rain off. (Laughter.) Secretary Cavazos and Ronna Romney and
members of the Commission, sponsors, guests, distinguished teachers
House. and Presidential Scholars, let me officially welcome you to the White
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli,
once said "Youth of a nation are the trustees of posterity." And the
poet James Lowell, was moved to write, "If youth be a defect, it is
one we outgrow only too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain
the trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who is a little long in the tooth maybe, but if youth is a
defect, treasure it as many years as you can.
We meet here on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
students in American education.
Scholars Program, and to honor some of the best and the brightest
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
can bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
education lead the way.
alone, but for nation and neighbor -- learning, caring, helping
I believe in education. And so do you -- for the
evidence is your lives. And you come from backgrounds of every race
and creed, and from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S.
Territories and families living abroad. And you've excelled in the
community service.
classroom and outside it, through leadership, character and, yes,
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your
talents. Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt, of Muncie, Indiana.
He started a Shakespeare Club at his high school. Or another
scholar, Clarity Haynes, of Washington, D.C.'s Ellington School of
the Arts. She is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. I'm a little
jealous. Some say I'm not even fluent in English.
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar from
Education can be the greater uplifter -- individually,
Anchorage, Alaska -- I think I see her -- put it best: "An educated
person,' she said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise
freedom of mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking. It won't be easy. And
you're right -- there'll be roadblocks along the way. And I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written shortly
before Christmas, the noted scholar teaching at Yale, William Lyons
Phelps, came across this note: "God only knows the answer to this
question. Merry Christmas." (Laughter.) Phelps returned the paper
MORE
- 2 -
with Year. the " annotation: "God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New
(Laughter.)
And as you do, remember that an educated person also has duties and
Roadblocks? Sure. You bet. But you can overcome them.
responsiblities. I've said that in America, the definition of
for succèssful life must include serving others. Well, that double a
you, and you can give them no greater gift than to share your
America's best. Many have labored to share their knowledge goes with
knowledge with others.
In that spirit, a
and they deserve our thanks.
number of people have brought you here,
Chairman of the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars.
Like Ronna Romney sitting right here,
the Commission sponsors. And let me salute the 47 Commission members And
whom I just met with who chose you, 141 honorees from America's
high-school graduates. But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask
you to thank -- all of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the history instructor who was a friend and mentor; the
And remember the guidance counselor who cared, or the football coach
biology teacher who did the impossible -- helped you dissect a frog.
who gave of his time and of himself as well. And remember those who
love you most and point you toward the stars -- what scholar
Christine Oh, of Bellville, Georgia has called "the backbone of my
success -- my family.'
So let me close with a story your family might appreciate about
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day.
learning and teaching and scholars of all ages.
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor
at Gottingen University in Germany when Robert Oppenheimer, then only
23, was being examined for his doctorate. On emerging from the oral
exam, Franck remembered -- this is the professor -- Franck
remembered, "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions." (Laughter.) )
Well, in coming years, you'll ask many questions --
questions about your faith and future, problems and priorities, about
what we can become, why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the
people who believe in it and you -- your life-long local minister,
the father who trudged his son to Little League, the mother who
toiled night and day so that her daughter could go to college.
Trust these people.
Make them proud. Honor them by the
lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their values, which are
world. education's values, can make ours a better, richer, most decent
To every Presidential Scholar, Barbara and I and our
great Secretary Larry Cavazos give you our heartfelt congratulations.
And to all of you here, thank you for coming to the White House. God
bless you and God bless our great country. Thank you all very, very
much. (Applause.)
END
2:44 P.M. EDT
Document No.
045465 55
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
6/19/89 89 JUN 19 P4: 59
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
4
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
,
BREEDEN
CARD
WINSTON
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
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
1000
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
to
JUNE 19, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
cw
FROM:
CURT SMITH as
SUBJECT:
JUNE 20 PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
I. SUMMARY
On Tuesday, June 20, at 2:30 p.m., you will honor the 1989
Presidential Scholars in the Rose Garden. About 250-300 people are
expected to attend the event, including Secretary Cavazos, teachers,
family members, and Commission members who chose the students.
II. DISCUSSION
The enclosed remarks (7 minutes; no teleprompter) focus on how
education can be "the great uplifter," and how the Presidential Scholars
prove it. The text refers to individual Scholars, and also salutes the
teachers and families who have contributed to their success.
(Smith/Blessey)
June 19, 1989
Draft Three
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet James
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth be a defect, it is one we
outgrow only too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who's a little long in the tooth: If youth is a defect,
treasure it as many years as you can.
We meet here on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholars Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
2
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, U.S. territories and families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school. Or another
Scholar, Clarity Haynes of Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington
School of the Arts. She is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish
[PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some people say I'm not even fluent
in English.
Education can be the greater uplifter -- individually, and
for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar from
Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person," she said,
"has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of mind in
all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon Phelps
came across this note: "God only knows the answer to this
question. Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the
annotation: "God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
3
Roadblocks? You bet. But you can overcome them. And as
you do, remember that an educated person also has duties and
responsibilities. I have said that in America, the definition of
a successful life must include serving others. Well, that goes
double for America's best. Many have labored to share their
knowledge with you. You can give them no greater gift than to
share your knowledge with others.
In that spirit, a number of people have brought you here,
and they deserve our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the
White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the
Commission sponsors. And let me salute the 47 Commission members
who chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History instructor who was a friend, and mentor;
the Biology teacher who did the impossible -- helped you dissect
a frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the
football coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And
remember those who love you most, and who point you toward the
stars: What Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has
called "the backbone of my success." Your family.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your family might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in Germany when Robert Oppenheimer, then
only 23, was being examined for his doctorate. On emerging from
the oral exam, Franck remarked: "I got out of there just in
time. He was beginning to ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
your faith and future, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
father who trudged his son to Little League, the mother who
toiled night and day so that her daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
- 2 -
You KNOW, THAT GREAT ENGLISH LEADER, BENJAMIN
DISRAELI, ONCE SAID, "Youth OF A NATION ARE THE
TRUSTEES OF POSTERITY." AND THE POET JAMES LOWELL WAS
MOVED TO WRITE, "IF YOUTH BE A DEFECT, IT IS ONE WE
OUTGROW ONLY TOO SOON."
WELL, AS THIS YEAR'S PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS, YOU
REMAIN THE TRUSTEES OF OUR POSTERITY.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
JUNE 19, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
cw
FROM:
CURT SMITH
SUBJECT:
JUNE 20 PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
I.
SUMMARY
On Tuesday, June 20, at 2:30 p.m., you will honor the 1989
Presidential Scholars in the Rose Garden. About 250-300 people are
expected to attend the event, including Secretary Cavazos, teachers,
family members, and Commission members who chose the students.
II. DISCUSSION
The enclosed remarks (7 minutes; no teleprompter) focus on how
education can be "the great uplifter," and how the Presidential Scholars
prove it. The text refers to individual Scholars, and also salutes the
teachers and families who have contributed to their success.
(Smith/Blessey)
June 19, 1989
Draft Three
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet James
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth be a defect, it is one we
outgrow only too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who's a little long in the tooth: If youth is a defect,
treasure it as many years as you can.
We meet here on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholars Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
2
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, U.S. territories and families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school. Or another
Scholar, Clarity Haynes of Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington
School of the Arts. She is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish
[PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some people say I'm not even fluent
in English.
Education can be the greater uplifter -- individually, and
for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar from
Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person," she said,
"has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of mind in
all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon Phelps
came across this note: "God only knows the answer to this
question. Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the
annotation: "God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
3
Roadblocks? You bet. But you can overcome them. And as
you do, remember that an educated person also has duties and
responsibilities. I have said that in America, the definition of
a successful life must include serving others. Well, that goes
double for America's best. Many have labored to share their
knowledge with you. You can give them no greater gift than to
share your knowledge with others.
In that spirit, a number of people have brought you here,
and they deserve our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the
White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the
Commission sponsors. And let me salute the 47 Commission members
who chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
But most of all, I want to thank and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History instructor who was a friend, and mentor;
the Biology teacher who did the impossible -- helped you dissect
a frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the
football coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And
remember those who love you most, and who point you toward the
stars: What Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has
called "the backbone of my success." Your family.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your family might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in Germany when Robert Oppenheimer, then
only 23, was being examined for his doctorate. On emerging from
the oral exam, Franck remarked: "I got out of there just in
time. He was beginning to ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
your faith and future, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
father who trudged his son to Little League, the mother who
toiled night and day so that her daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
89 JUN 16 P | : 08
June 16, 1989
Memorandum to Chriss Winston
From:
Jim Pinkerton
Subject:
Presidential Scholars
The speech does a good job of praising the participants,
which is the first requirement. We suggest also reminding them
that their success implies a responsibility and a duty to use
their talent to increase knowledge and serve others. For
example, at pg. 2, para. 4, lines 3-5, after the scholar's quote
about "choices, alternatives, and freedom," the President could
say:
"I am sure that Meath would agree with me that an educated
person also has duties and responsibilities. I have said that
today, in America, the definition of a successful life must
include service to others.
"That goes all the more for America's best. That
responsibility to others includes using knowledge to increase
knowledge and overcome ignorance. There is a symmetry in the
idea of giving something back in return for the knowledge you
have received.
"And there is no greater gift to those who have labored to
share their knowledge with you, than that you should seek to
share your knowledge and your gifts with others."
1,2,2
The "gentleman -- gentlewomen" phrase seems a bit
contrived and forced, not to mention slightly patronizing. We
suggest omitting it.
1,4,3
We think the President will not want to call himself a
senior citizen. Instead, we suggest calling attention to the
fact that the President is "one who has kids and grandkids, and
thinks about the future all the time."
(more)
2-2-2
2,3,5-8 Self-deprecation always serves to make the speaker seem
more equal with his audience by being more human. The trouble
here is that the audience does not want to feel more equal to the
speaker. These are kids who very much look up to the President
and the Presidency. They want and expect him to act
Presidential. Because these lines are just slightly too self-
mocking, they are un-Presidential, and therefore, we suggest
omitting them.
2,5,4
"Phelps" is mistakenly omitted here after "William
Lyon. "
3,2,1
It seems obvious that a roadblock is "assailable." "
We
suggest "can be overcome. =
#
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
6/15/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
12:00 6/16/89
DATE:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN coming tend
SCOWCROFT
PORTER not iN office
DARMAN
STUDDERT Not IN office
BATES coming
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON Not in office
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
add insert A somewhere
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert James
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is Zbe a defect, it is one we
only)
outgrow too soon. "
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
plas hids and srandaids
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And SO do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Ann Saco, When mich, you
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually, dr.
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
role
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person, " he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There 11 be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
Thelps
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
car be overcome
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
insmenv
teacher -- the History brof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
realled
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
and
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in
when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And SO can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
capital
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day SO that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
6/15/89
89 JUN 19 A10: 09
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
00 6/16/89
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
All comments
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
1009
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
little long in the tooth -
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person,' he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
-
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your family. parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
I
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
father
mother
mother who trudged hes son to Little League, the father who
her
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
6/15/89
89 JUN 16:08/16:16589
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments attached
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
- Education did not think it Sounds like the President.
- Could tye in volunteerism.
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
- They felt
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person,' he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
-
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
-
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions. "
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
6/15/89
89 JUN 16 P4: 27:00 6/16/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
OK, eveept all the Presidential tenolars mentioned on Puge 2 are
males
JBn/20
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
comments called in
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
12:01 Ded
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
1989
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person," he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life." "
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year." "
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
-
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
-
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you 11 ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
THE WHITE house
WASHINGTON
89 JUN 16 All : 50
June 16, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
PATRICIA M. BRYAN PIUB
Associate Counsel to the President
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks -- Presidential Scholars
Pursuant to James W. Cicconi's staffing memorandum of June 16,
1989, the Counsel's office has reviewed the above-referenced
remarks and has no legal objections to them. We have made a
minor editorial suggestion on page 3 of the draft.
CC: James W. Cicconi
,
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
6/15/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
12:00 6/16/89
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to henor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person, he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." n Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year." "
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
I
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
by
ing to
Biology teacher who did the impossible
help you h dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And SO can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
89 JUN 16 JUN P12: 12
6/15/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
12:00 6/16/89
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
ISSB
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And SO do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
...
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
/di
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person,' he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There' 11 be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas.' Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
-
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to. the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
045465SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
89 JUN 16 P12 : 11
6/15/89
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
12:00 6/16/89
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
ROGERS
CICCONI
PINKERTON
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please provide your comments/recommendations directly to Chriss
Winston's office with an info copy to my office by 12:00
Friday, June 16. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
James W, Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
Pause
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
...
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person," he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
I
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
(Smith/Blessey)
June 15, 1989
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Borny antions Newman
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
No
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
fimales
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person," he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in - when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
# # # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
150g to
WASHINGTON
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
6/19/89
JUNE 19, 1989
INFORMATION
OK
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
cw
Shron?
CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
CURT SMITH
tiny
SUBJECT:
JUNE 20 PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
3
I.
SUMMARY
6-19-m
On Tuesday, June 20, at 2:30 p.m., you will honor the 1989
Presidential Scholars in the Rose Garden. About 250-300 people are
expected to attend the event, including Secretary Cavazos, teachers,
family members, and Commission members who chose the students.
II. DISCUSSION
The enclosed remarks (7 minutes; no teleprompter) focus on how
education can be "the great uplifter," and how the Presidential Scholars
prove it. The text refers to individual Scholars, and also salutes the
teachers and families who have contributed to their success.
(Smith/Blessey)
June 19, 1989
Draft Three
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet James
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth be a defect, it is one we
outgrow only too soon."
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who's a little long in the tooth: If youth is a defect,
treasure it as many years as you can.
We meet here on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholars Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
2
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, U.S. territories and families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school. Or another
Scholar, Clarity Haynes of Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington
School of the Arts. She is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish
[PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some people say I'm not even fluent
in English.
Education can be the greater uplifter -- individually, and
for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar from
Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person," she said,
"has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of mind in
all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon Phelps
came across this note: "God only knows the answer to this
question. Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the
annotation: "God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
3
Roadblocks? You bet. But you can overcome them. And as
you do, remember that an educated person also has duties and
responsibilities. I have said that in America, the definition of
a successful life must include serving others. Well, that goes
double for America's best. Many have labored to share their
knowledge with you. You can give them no greater gift than to
share your knowledge with others.
In that spirit, a number of people have brought you here,
and they deserve our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the
White House Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the
Commission sponsors. And let me salute the 47 Commission members
who chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History instructor who was a friend, and mentor;
the Biology teacher who did the in
dissect
a frog. Remember that caring gui
football coach who gave of his ti
remember those who love you most
stars: What Scholar Christine C
called "the backbone of my succ
Patty boodling. this fise
your
My friends, this is your d
So
let me close with a story your
t
learning, and teaching, and Scho
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in Germany when Robert Oppenheimer, then
only 23, was being examined for his doctorate. On emerging from
the oral exam, Franck remarked: "I got out of there just in
time. He was beginning to ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
your faith and future, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And so can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
father who trudged his son to Little League, the mother who
toiled night and day so that her daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
#
#
#
FICE
REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
2:30 P.M.
SECRETARY CAVAZOS, RONNA ROMNEY, MEMBERS OF THE
COMMISSION, SPONSORS AND SELECTED GUESTS, DISTINGUISHED
TEACHERS, PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS.
LET ME WELCOME YOU TO THE WHITE HOUSE.
- 2 -
You KNOW, THAT GREAT ENGLISH LEADER, BENJAMIN
DISRAELI, ONCE SAID, "Youth IS THE TRUSTEE OF
POSTERITY." AND THE POET JAMES LOWELL WAS MOVED TO
WRITE, "IF YOUTH BE A DEFECT, IT IS ONE WE OUTGROW ONLY
TOO SOON."
WELL, AS THIS YEAR'S PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS, YOU
REMAIN THE TRUSTEES OF OUR POSTERITY.
- 3 -
AND I HOPE YOU'LL ACCEPT SOME COUNSEL FROM ONE WHO'S A
LITTLE LONG IN THE TOOTH: IF YOUTH IS A DEFECT,
TREASURE IT AS MANY YEARS AS YOU CAN.
WE MEET HERE ON THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE
PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM. AND TO HONOR SOME OF
THE BEST AND THE BRIGHTEST STUDENTS IN AMERICAN
EDUCATION.
THIS MARKS THE HIGHEST SCHOLASTIC HONOR THAT A
PRESIDENT CAN BESTOW -- AND I AM HONORED TO BESTOW IT.
- 4 -
FOR WHILE ALREADY YOU HAVE DONE MUCH, I KNOW YOU WILL
DO MORE. AND NOT FOR YOURSELVES ALONE -- BUT FOR
NATION, AND NEIGHBOR: LEARNING, CARING, HELPING
EDUCATION LEAD THE WAY.
I BELIEVE IN EDUCATION. AND SO DO YOU -- FOR THE
EVIDENCE IS YOUR LIVES. You COME FROM BACKGROUNDS OF
EVERY RACE AND CREED. AND FROM ALL FIFTY STATES, THE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, U.S. TERRITORIES AND FAMILIES
LIVING ABROAD.
- 5 -
AND YOU'VE EXCELLED IN THE CLASSROOM, AND OUTSIDE IT:
THROUGH LEADERSHIP, CHARACTER, AND COMMUNITY SERVICE.
You KNOW, AS I DO, HOW EDUCATION CAN UNLEASH YOUR
TALENTS. TAKE PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR EBEN HEWITT OF
MUNCIE, INDIANA. HE STARTED A SHAKESPEARE CLUB AT HIS
HIGH SCHOOL. OR ANOTHER SCHOLAR, CLARITY HAYNES OF
WASHINGTON, D.C.'s DUKE ELLINGTON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS.
SHE IS FLUENT IN PORTUGUESE AND SPANISH [PAUSE]
...
- 6 -
I'M JEALOUS. SOME PEOPLE SAY I'M NOT EVEN FLUENT IN
ENGLISH.
EDUCATION CAN BE THE GREAT UPLIFTER --
INDIVIDUALLY, AND FOR AMERICA. PERHAPS MEATH BOWEN, A
PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR FROM ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, PUT IT
BEST: "AN EDUCATED PERSON," SHE SAID, "HAS CHOICES,
ALTERNATIVES, AND CAN EXERCISE FREEDOM OF MIND IN ALL
AREAS OF LIFE."
- 7 -
Now, I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE THINKING: IT WON'T BE
EASY. AND YOU'RE RIGHT: THERE'LL BE ROADBLOCKS ALONG
THE WAY. I'M REMINDED OF HOW ONCE, MARKING AN
EXAMINATION PAPER WRITTEN SHORTLY BEFORE CHRISTMAS, THE
NOTED SCHOLAR WILLIAM LYON PHELPS CAME ACROSS THIS
NOTE: "GoD ONLY KNOWS THE ANSWER TO THIS QUESTION.
MERRY CHRISTMAS." PHELPS RETURNED THE PAPER WITH THE
ANNOTATION: "GOD GETS AN A. You GET AN F. HAPPY NEW
YEAR."
- 8 -
ROADBLOCKS? You BET. BUT YOU CAN OVERCOME THEM.
AND AS YOU DO, REMEMBER THAT AN EDUCATED PERSON ALSO
HAS DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES. I HAVE SAID THAT IN
AMERICA, THE DEFINITION OF A SUCCESSFUL LIFE MUST
INCLUDE SERVING OTHERS. WELL, THAT GOES DOUBLE FOR
AMERICA'S BEST. MANY HAVE LABORED TO SHARE THEIR
KNOWLEDGE WITH YOU. You CAN GIVE THEM NO GREATER GIFT
THAN TO SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH OTHERS.
- 9 -
IN THAT SPIRIT, A NUMBER OF PEOPLE HAVE BROUGHT YOU
HERE, AND THEY DESERVE OUR THANKS. LIKE RONNA ROMNEY,
CHAIRMAN OF THE WHITE HOUSE COMMISSION ON PRESIDENTIAL
SCHOLARS. AND THE COMMISSION SPONSORS. AND LET ME
SALUTE THE 47 COMMISSION MEMBERS WHO CHOSE YOU 141
HONOREES FROM AMERICA'S HIGH-SCHOOL GRADUATES. BUT
MOST OF ALL, I WANT TO THANK -- AND ASK YOU TO THANK --
ALL OF THOSE PEOPLE WHO FORM THE FABRIC OF YOUR LIFE.
- 10 -
TODAY, AND IN THE YEARS TO COME, REMEMBER THAT
FAVORITE TEACHER -- THE HISTORY INSTRUCTOR WHO WAS A
FRIEND, AND MENTOR; THE BIOLOGY TEACHER WHO DID THE
IMPOSSIBLE -- HELPED YOU DISSECT A FROG. REMEMBER THAT
CARING GUIDANCE COUNSELOR. OR THE FOOTBALL COACH WHO
GAVE OF HIS TIME, AND OF HIMSELF. AND REMEMBER THOSE
WHO LOVE YOU MOST, AND WHO POINT YOU TOWARD THE STARS:
WHAT SCHOLAR CHRISTINE OH OF BELLVILLE, GEORGIA, HAS
CALLED "THE BACKBONE OF MY SUCCESS." YOUR FAMILY.
- 11 -
MY FRIENDS, THIS IS YOUR DAY. BUT IT IS ALSO THEIR
DAY. So LET ME CLOSE WITH A STORY YOUR FAMILY MIGHT
APPRECIATE: ABOUT LEARNING, AND TEACHING, AND SCHOLARS
OF ALL AGES.
THE STORY GOES THAT PHYSICIST JAMES FRANCK WAS
PROFESSOR AT GOTTINGEN UNIVERSITY IN GERMANY WHEN
ROBERT OPPENHEIMER, THEN ONLY 23, WAS BEING EXAMINED
FOR HIS DOCTORATE.
- 12 -
ON EMERGING FROM THE ORAL EXAM, FRANCK REMARKED: "I
GOT OUT OF THERE JUST IN TIME. HE WAS BEGINNING TO ASK
ME QUESTIONS."
IN COMING YEARS, YOU'LL ASK MANY QUESTIONS.
QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR FAITH AND FUTURE, PROBLEMS AND
PRIORITIES, ABOUT WHAT WE CAN BECOME, AND WHY WE ARE
HERE.
- 13 - -
EDUCATION CAN PROVIDE SOME ANSWERS. AND SO CAN THE
PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN IT, AND YOU: YOUR LIFE-LONG
LOCAL MINISTER, THE FATHER WHO TRUDGED HIS SON TO
LITTLE LEAGUE, THE MOTHER WHO TOILED NIGHT AND DAY so
THAT HER DAUGHTER COULD GO TO COLLEGE.
TRUST THESE PEOPLE. MAKE THEM PROUD. HONOR THEM
BY THE LIVES YOU LEAD. AND AS YOU DO, REMEMBER HOW
THEIR VALUES, WHICH ARE EDUCATION'S VALUES, CAN MAKE
OURS A BETTER, RICHER, MORE DECENT WORLD.
- 14 -
To EVERY PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR - -- MY HEART-FELT
CONGRATULATIONS. AND TO ALL OF YOU HERE -- THANK YOU
FOR COMING TO THE WHITE HOUSE, GOD BLESS YOU, AND GOD
BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
# # # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
feet fee
June 16, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER
RBP
SUBJECT:
Draft Remarks: Presidential Scholars
These draft remarks are superb in many, many ways. I
think they will give these presidential scholars an event
they will long remember.
My only suggestioned changes concern the paragraphs on
page two that involve some self-deprecating humor. Specifi-
cally, the second full paragraph referring to the need for
speaking lessons and that the President is not fluent in
English. I would recommend simply deleting the humor. It
reads well without it.
Once again, congratulations on another excellent speech.
CC: James W. Cicconi
(Smith/Blessey)
1989 JUN 15 PM 6:21
June 15, 1989
Draft Two
SCHOLAR
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS
WHITE HOUSE ROSE GARDEN
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 1989
Secretary Cavazos, Ronna Romney, Members of the Commission,
Sponsors and Selected Guests, Distinguished Teachers,
Presidential Scholars.
Let me welcome you to the White House. I am always glad to
meet with those who are both gentlemen -- gentlewomen -- and
scholars.
You know, that great English leader, Benjamin Disraeli, once
said, "Youth is the trustee of posterity." And the poet Robert
Lowell was moved to write, "If youth is a defect, it is one we
outgrow too soon. "
Well, as this year's Presidential Scholars, you remain the
trustees of our posterity. And I hope you'll accept some counsel
from one who last week became a senior citizen: If youth is a
defect, treasure it as long as you can.
We meet today on the 25th anniversary of the Presidential
Scholarship Program. And to honor some of the best and the
brightest students in American education.
This marks the highest scholastic honor that a President can
bestow -- and I am honored to bestow it. For while already you
have done much, I know you will do more. And not for yourselves
2
alone -- but for Nation, and neighbor: Learning, caring, helping
education lead the way.
My friends, I believe in education. And so do you -- for
the evidence is your lives. You come from backgrounds of every
race and creed. And from all fifty States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad. And
you've excelled in the classroom, and outside it: Through
leadership, character, and community service.
You know, as I do, how education can unleash your talents.
Take Presidential Scholar Eben Hewitt of Muncie, Indiana. He
started a Shakespeare Club at his high school [PAUSE]
Eben,
do you think you could give me acting lessons? [PAUSE]
how
about speaking lessons? Or another Scholar, Clarity Haynes of
Washington, D.C.'s Duke Ellington School of the Arts. He is
fluent in Portuguese and Spanish [PAUSE]
I'm jealous. Some
people say I'm not even fluent in English.
Yes, education can be the greater uplifter -- invidually,
and for America. Perhaps Meath Bowen, a Presidential Scholar
from Anchorage, Alaska, put it best: "An educated person,' he
said, "has choices, alternatives, and can exercise freedom of
mind in all areas of life."
Now, I know what you're thinking: It won't be easy. And
you're right: There'll be roadblocks along the way. I'm
reminded of how once, marking an examination paper written
shortly before Christmas, the noted scholar William Lyon came
across this note: "God only knows the answer to this question.
3
Merry Christmas." Phelps returned the paper with the annotation:
"God gets an A. You get an F. Happy New Year."
Roadblocks? You bet. But each one is assailable. For your
"choices and alternatives" can help you become a writer, stirring
people through poetry. Or lead you to the the law, into
medicine, or even to politics. Whatever you choose, the road
marked "tomorrow" is wide open. You can walk it, climb it,
through your "freedom" and your dreams.
A number of people have brought you here, and they deserve
our thanks. Like Ronna Romney, Chairman of the White House
Commission on Presidential Scholars. And the Commission
sponsors. And let me salute the fifty Commission members who
chose you 141 honorees from America's high-school graduates.
-
But most of all, I want to thank -- and ask you to thank -- all
of those people who form the fabric of your life.
Today, and in the years to come, remember that favorite
teacher -- the History prof who was a friend, and mentor; the
Biology teacher who did the impossible -- help you dissect a
frog. Remember that caring guidance counselor. Or the football
coach who gave of his time, and of himself. And remember those
who love you most, and who point you toward the stars: What
Scholar Christine Oh of Bellville, Georgia, has termed "the
backbone of my success." Your parents.
My friends, this is your day. But it is also their day. So
let me close with a story your parents might appreciate: about
learning, and teaching, and Scholars of all ages.
4
The story goes that physicist James Franck was professor at
Gottingen University in when Robert Oppenheimer, then only 23,
was being examined for his doctorate. When the oral exam ended,
it was the professor, not student, who first emerged. Franck
remarked: "I got out of there just in time. He was beginning to
ask me questions."
In coming years, you'll ask many questions. Questions about
faith and family, problems and priorities, about what we can
become, and why we are here.
Education can provide some answers. And SO can the people
who believe in it, and you: Your life-long local minister, the
mother who trudged her son to Little League, the father who
toiled night and day so that his daughter could go to college.
My friends, trust these people. Make them proud. Honor
them by the lives you lead. And as you do, remember how their
values, which are education's values, can make ours a better,
richer, more decent world.
To every Presidential Scholar -- my heart-felt
congratulations. And to all of you here -- thank you for coming
to the White House, God bless you, and God bless the United
States of America.
#
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