The class of 2013 now faces the “real world.” Commencement speaker Geoffrey Canada, speaking to a crowd of more than 10,000, told the graduates that our generation “has left you a real mess,” and that they should “finish what we have begun.” There were five valedictorians—all of whom had a 4.0 average for their four college years. One thousand, eight hundred ninety-four degrees were awarded, 1,059 of them to undergraduates.
Regarding all the discussion about the value of a liberal arts education, it’s worth quoting Kevin Hand ’97 (Stanford Ph.D.), planetary astronomer: “One of my most important science teachers was my English teacher. If you don’t know how to coherently articulate an idea or hypothesis, you’ll never be able to publish, get a grant—or communicate across disciplines” (Alumni Magazine, July-August 2013).
Interim president, Carol L. Folt, is on her way to her new position as chancellor of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, as Phil Hanlon ’77 on June 10 became Dartmouth’s 18th president. He is the 10th Dartmouth alumnus to serve as president and will formally be inaugurated on September 20. Among the many important statements made on his first day as president, Hanlon said, “Dartmouth must offer a campus climate that all students experience as welcoming and respectful. Consequently, I will place a high priority on fostering an environment that is positive, healthy and conducive to open dialogue, debate and learning.” This statement is welcome in view of the problems on campus this spring, when a group of students protested instances of racism, sexual assault and homophobia at Dartmouth. Following the protest classes were cancelled for a day of reflection and alternative educational programming.
Our 70th reunion looks promising: 21 classmates plus guests are expected as of June 25. It’s too bad Joaquin Vallarino can’t make it—he would surely win first prize for traveling the longest distance to join us. Bob Fieldsteel is a top contender for the shortest distance.
We regret to report the deaths of Powell C. Groner Jr., George W. Benz and Jeremy Blanchet. Our condolences to their families.
—John Jenkins, 80 Lyme Road, Apt. 304, Hanover, NH 03755; (603) 643-2757; mmjenkins@kahres.kendal.org
