University of Arkansas Commencement Address, 1947

MR. CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, DISTINGUISHED GUESTS, DEANS, MEMBERS OF THE FACULTIES OF THE UNIVERSITY, MEMBERS OF THE GRADUATING CLASS, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN I accept this trust with a deep sense of responsibility. I pledge myself to work wholeheartedly to maintain and develop the best traditions of the University of Arkansas. We are met together for the ceremonial recognition of three events: two of them, commencement and inauguration, symbolize new beginnings; but the third, the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Uni- versity, turns our minds to the past, from which these new beginnings must draw their inspiration and sustenance. This is for all of us a day of re-dedication to the high purposes for which the University of Arkansas was conceived. For you, members of the graduating class, this is a solemn moment. The degrees conferred upon you today signify that you are now joining an honorable company of intellectual workers, scientists, artists and craftsmen who have built up our civilization, and who will carry it forward into the future. Many of you have already under- taken one of the most serious responsibilities of citizenship, and have completed your formal education after years spent in the service of your country. We send you forth again, confident that you will be valuable citizens of the communities in which you live and work. Our good wishes and continuing interest go with you. We count on your continuing interest in the development of the University. For me, also, this is a solemn moment, and one of dedication. I do not lightly undertake the task of leadership of the University of Arkansas. This is clearly not a soft job, but an immensely challenging one. The University has had a stormy and exciting history