Convocation 2005 Address
Tom Clark, Cochair, Staff Council

Tom Clark, Cochair, Staff Council (photo by Fred LeBlanc)

September 7, 2005

Good morning!

I would first like to extend my thanks to President Creighton for inviting a member of the staff to speak to you today at the 169th convocation. Thank you, President Creighton.

It is truly an honor and privilege to welcome back the returning students and to greet and welcome the class of 2009 to Mount Holyoke College! Standing here in front of you I am in awe. Before me are more than 2,000 of the most motivated and gifted students to pass through the gates of Mount Holyoke, and your presence here is in itself proof of tremendous achievement on the part of each and every one of you. As I look out at the next four years worth of Mount Holyoke graduates I see diversity, eagerness, accomplishment, pride, excitement, dedication, and hope for what lies ahead.

I see many of the same things each and every day as I work with and alongside the more than 800 people who are my coworkers. We are the staff of Mount Holyoke and just as you the students and the hundreds of faculty are essential to making Mount Holyoke what it is, we too are an integral component of the culture, community, and continued success of this institution. As a group we possess a tremendous range of knowledge, skills, interests, and backgrounds, all of which contribute to our successful ability to keep the College running smoothly and providing you the students with the support, facilities, and security necessary for you to make the most of what Mount Holyoke has to offer during the time you call this very special place home.

We, the staff, are just as committed to upholding the values of Mount Holyoke College, perpetuating its exemplary reputation and accomplishing our part in fulfilling the mission of this institution – to educate women at the highest level. On behalf of the Staff Council and all Mount Holyoke College staff, I welcome you and wish you all the best for the coming year. Thank you.

Convocation 2005 Index