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Commencement 2000: Valedictorian's Remarks
Graduates told to "Embark on a Great Adventure"
Sandra M. Torres, a psychology major and mother of two
from Central Islip, NY, earned the distinction of Valedictorian
of the Class of 2000 at the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University,
Brookville, NY. The 31-year-old mother of two delivered her valedictory
remarks on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 14 before an audience of
7,500 graduates and their guests. She has a perfect 4.0 grade
point average and received a bachelor of science degree in psychology.
Proud of her Hispanic heritage, Sandra Torres is sensitive
to issues of ethnicity and plans to dedicate her future to providing
quality healthcare to ethnic groups by pursuing a career in medicine.
She has been accepted by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine
of Yeshiva University and will begin her studies in August.
Sandra M. Torres - Valedictorian
Valedictory Address - May 14, 2000
42nd Annual Commencement Ceremonies
C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University
I'd like to begin by asking those present here today, the
administration, faculty, friends and family to join me in congratulating
the extraordinary accomplishments of our graduates, the C.W.
POST MILLENNIUM CLASS OF 2000!
It is a great honor and a privilege to speak here today to
so many dear friends.
Years ago, we embarked together upon a journey of learning
and experience. As C.W. Post students, this required that we
make a commitment to pursue the mastery of many disciplines,
including Science, Literature, Politics, Philosophy, Business,
Education and the Arts. As members of the C.W. Post community,
we have found ourselves presented with unexpected opportunities
to explore our interests and broaden our horizons. In addition
to our educational curriculum, our learning has been enriched
with student and faculty art exhibits, musical recitals, theatrical
productions, seminars and forums that have touched not only our
minds but our hearts as well. Because we dared to challenge our
ideals and face our fears, we discovered the existence of the
world of possibilities that lies within each of us. Through the
rigors of our curriculum we are now armed and empowered with
skills for learning that we will utilize the rest of our lives.
As the first graduating class in the new millennium, the C.W.
Post Class of 2000 bridges the gap between the struggles and
successes of the last one thousand years and the dreams for the
next. As a class, we stand today at the precipice of a new era.
An era destined to bring dramatic and revolutionary changes in
the areas of technology, medicine, world politics and social
reform. Leading by example, we will forge a better world. Working
together, as we have learned to do here over these past few years,
we will demonstrate the infinite benefit that is to be gleaned
through service and cooperation, and lead the world in a celebration
of the beauty of our diversity.
As I stand here before my fellow graduates, I cannot help
but be inspired by the incredible mosaic of talented and dedicated
individuals that could not have existed in any other centennial
class.
Sitting among the graduating Class of 2000, I see both men
and women, of all ages; single, married, divorced and widowed.
I see mothers, daughters, sons and fathers.
I see grandparents.
I see African Americans, Asian Americans and my fellow Latino
Americans.
I see members of every ethnic, cultural and religious group
conceivable.
I see the physically challenged sitting beside the athlete
and the economically disadvantaged along side the affluent.
Most importantly, I see the hope for a brighter future; one
in which the last vestiges of intolerance and hatred are finally
abolished. The pursuit and attainment of a degree is the preparation
for a great adventure, not the end of one. Many of us will be
going on to graduate or professional schools while others will
be joining or returning to the work force or starting families.
Some will travel to far away places and some will be staying
nearby. I have been blessed with the opportunity to fulfill my
dreams of serving my community by studying medicine at the Albert
Einstein College of Medicine this fall. No doubt the roads that
we each embark upon will be as unique as those that brought us
together here today.
However, no matter what our calling or goal may be, we must
remember that to whom much is given, much is expected. Whether
it is as a political leader, educator, artist or parent, each
one of us has an obligation to continue to nurture not only our
own minds, but also those whose lives we touch.
My life has been touched by so many, without whose help, I
could not have even begun to work toward my goals. So I would
like to take a moment now to address first my mom, Rosa Pagan
[where are you mom, raise your hand}, whom I am proud to say
sits among us here today to receive her bachelor's degree in
Health Care Administration and her master's degree in Public
Administration. Thank you, Mom for encouraging me not only to
dream, but also to strive to make my dreams come true.
To my mom and all the mothers graduating here today, I also
want to wish you all a very Happy Mother's Day. Each of you is
an example of how any one armed with determination; faith and
the loving support of her family can achieve any goal. You are
an inspiration not only to your own children, but to us all.
Dr. Digby and Dr. Shields: Your support and guidance have
been invaluable. From answering midnight emails to helping meet
last minute deadlines, you have helped myself and so many others
stand a little taller so that we might reach our goals. I will
treasure your friendship always.
A very special thanks is due to my sister, Rosanne, for being
my biggest supporter and number one fan and to my Dad, for being
the best Grampa in the world.
Most importantly, to my husband Julian and my children Michael
and Melissa; thank you for your daily sacrifices, your patience,
your limitless support and unconditional love. You truly are
the wind beneath my wings. Love you.
My fellow graduates, it truly is an honor to be counted among
you, the pioneers of the new millennium. I wish you all continued
success in your endeavors, and as you leave here today with family
and friends, I encourage you not just to celebrate your accomplishments,
but also your possibilities.
Congratulations, C.W. Post Class of 2000!
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