Queen Noor's Commencement Address

	PHOTO BY FRED LEBLANC

Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan delivered the commencement address before 479 graduating seniors at Mount Holyoke College on Sunday, May 26. A transcript of her address, which dealt with the unique role of women as peacemakers, will be made available shortly by the Queen's office. Below are a couple of selected excerpts from her address transcribed from her taped remarks; also, local coverage of the commencement is available here.

Recent events have highlighted for some in the United States though perhaps not yet enough for others that they share the problems of the rest of the world whether they want to or not. The continuing terrorist threats have jolted many into the realization that there is no security in isolation. Now, rather than going on the offensive, it is time to assess the role of the United States in the community of nations and cultures, to look together for positive ways to solve these problems and to pursue peace. And here, at Mount Holyoke, you know that women can lead that process. In the long history of a world filled with war women have always been at least been paid lip service as guardians of peace.

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In the face of uncertainty, the essence of humanity is hope. You, the new graduates of Mount Holyoke College, the next generation of women leaders, can nurture that hope, and you can build a future for us all.