“We have Tutu’s connections to thank for the weather.”
-Jill Kasle, University Marshal, as sunny skies shined on the Ellipse and a cool breeze blew Sunday.

“We have (Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Arthur) Levitt’s connections to thank for the weather and Tutu’s connections to thank for the stock market.”
-Stephen Joel Trachtenberg, GW president

“We have only just begun to grasp the limits of our knowledge. . . To dream anything you want to dream – that is the strength of the human mind.”
-Cynthia Gee, student speaker and graduate of the School of Engineering and Applied Science

“There are a couple out on bail.”
-Trachtenberg , referring to the 10 Student Association presidents on the Commencement stage.

“Who is he?”
-Archbishop Desmond Tutu, relating a story about an American who wanted his autograph but did not know who he was.

“Life is a series of mistakes you can learn from.”
-Esther Dyson, an honorary degree recipient

“If you give the world the best you have, the best will come to you. Keep being visionaries.”
-Jacqueline Joyner-Kersee, Olympic medalist and honorary degree recipient

“Live your life through passion.”
-Levitt, an honorary degree recipient

“Idealism is out of fashion these days, but, perhaps, it’ll be your mission as the graduates of GW to revive it.”
-Trachtenberg