Speech to Graduating Class 2007
by UNIS Board of Directors Chairperson Margaret Sheehan
Ladies and gentlemen, parents of graduates and most importantly this evening the graduating class of 2007
It is my pleasure to be here tonight to congratulate you, say a fond farewell and thank you for the fine contribution that you have made to UNIS school community over your school life here. It is one of the most pleasurable tasks the board chair has, to address the graduating class. On behalf of the UNIS Board of Directors and the whole UNIS community I say a heartfelt congratulations. We are proud of the efforts that you have made and thank you for your contributions to the life and spirit of UNIS as the senior class or our UNIS grade 12's. The Board also offers its congratulation to the parents and teachers of these young graduates for your guidance and commitment and perhaps at times your patience. You should also feel justifiably proud for your part in their success.
One thing I have found distinctive about Vietnam is the way that rights and responsibilities are part of the one concept. A right never exists without a responsibility. Our right to attend a prestigious university is linked to our responsibility to learn well and to use our knowledge to improve the things we can . A right to travel the world and be an international citizen demands that we take some responsibility for issues including environmental degradation and economic and gender in equalities. Our right to live in peace means that we have a responsibility to consider how we individually seek ways to resolve conflict. This rights and responsibilities ideal might be something worth taking with you from Vietnam. think about the world I suppose its another way of considering a balance in life.
Many famous people are quoted at graduations ceremonies but I would
like to quote my mother. She used to say, "Margaret, no one can ask any more of you than your best." My advice, as you begin this exciting new chapter, is to "give life your best" , and in doing so, save your very very best effort to those less fortunate, less able and those who have not had the wonderful educational opportunities that you have.
Anyway, you have a whole lifetime to save the world- but tonight is a night for celebration and a good effort deserves an appropriate reward. Go ahead and enjoy yourselves, you have earned the right- and as for the responsible I'm sure you know that very well.
Again on Behalf of the UNIS Board and whole school community congratulation, well done and Chuc Mung. |
