Welcome
Dr. Donald R. Eastman, III

Men and women of Eckerd College, the end is near.

On August 15, 2003, I handed you your medal to begin your college career at the Ceremony of Lights, and today I handed you your diploma to end it. The first was a gift; the second was earned. Last night we sang at Baccalaureate the same words we have sung at Convocation each year: Grant us wisdom; grant us courage - for the facing of the hour; for the facing of the hour.

Residential and PEL graduates, fellow students who have arrived at this glorious day by so many various paths, we hope that your years at Eckerd College have prepared you for a life of ceaseless change, ceaseless service, and moral courage - "for the facing of the hour." We will know by your work if we have succeeded.

Come back and visit. Stay connected. Join the annual fund. Learn the joys and responsibilities of alumniship. Remember the College.

I will miss you.

Bon voyage.