“I wish I knew what you know.”
That’s how University President Lee Bollinger addressed the newest graduates of the School of Engineering and Applied Science on Monday, adding that their knowledge gives them the power to explore and solve “not just engineering problems, but human problems.”
“Every single person who thinks about any subject comes eventually to you,” Bollinger said.
The graduates gathered on a damp afternoon for Class Day, where Public Service Enterprise Group CEO Ralph Izzo—who received both a master’s in mechanical engineering and a doctorate in applied physics from SEAS in 1979 and 1981, respectively—spoke about the importance of engineers collaborating to search for solutions to the world’s biggest issues.
“The world needs leaders with the knowledge and skills associated with your degree,” Izzo said. “Some of my fondest memories of Columbia are sitting around with friends, trying to solve the problems of the world.”
“I urge you—keep the faith, keep believing in yourself, and never stop learning,” Izzo concluded.
In a more lighthearted speech, valedictorian Norases Vesdapunt spoke of the welcome he had experienced as an international student from Thailand, drawing laughs from the crowd in his description of American habits—including “allowing the boxers to peek out from your pants.”
He ended his speech with a hope for the future possibilities of each of the graduates, and two words: “Surprise me!”
Class president Amanda Tan began the ceremony by reflecting on the graduates around her.
“When I think about the many people who have impacted my life, I can’t help but think about the people I have met at Columbia,” Tan said, and was greeted by applause and cheers from her classmates.
Graduate student speaker Joshua Gaspard also highlighted the ability of the graduates to directly improve their future communities through engineering.
“The greatness of our story will not be ... a single event. The greatness of our story will be intertwined and woven into the thousands of lives we will have touched,” Gaspard said.
Between the speeches from the deans, students, and guests, graduate Dexter Hypolite said he enjoyed the emotions of the day—mixed with elements of practicality.
“I liked listening to what the alumni had to say, as they have knowledge—they’re in the field now, they graduated. So listening to them is good advice, and of course sharing the good feeling of what has been done, what has been accomplished as a class—I enjoyed that very much,” he said.
For graduate Ajit Haridas, it was President Bollinger’s remarks that struck a chord.
“I like the way President Bollinger talked about the connection between liberal arts and engineering,” Haridas said, “and how the two must work together for the betterment of mankind.”
emily.neil@columbiaspectator.com
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