This spring, historically Black colleges and universities and Hispanic-serving institutions are hosting a number of influential minority leaders, who are offering pearls of wisdom to the Class of 2011.
President Barack Obama spoke at Miami Dade College on April 29, offering inspirational words for the graduates:
“Class of 2011, you and your generation are now responsible for our future … you are going to be leaders for many years to come.” Obama said. Sharing anecdotes and childhood stories, Obama was able to connect with the students, allowing his own journey to be inspiring stepping-stones for the road that awaits them. “Pursue success,” he said. “Do not falter. When you make it, pull somebody else up. Remember, your life is richer when people around you have a shot at opportunity as well.”
Obama’s appearance at MDC, with its largely Hispanic student body, has been seen as an attempt to strengthen his support among Hispanic voters prior to the 2012 presidential campaign.
Obama also is scheduled to provide commencement addresses at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and Booker T. Washington High School, which won the White House Race to the Top Commencement Challenge.
First lady Michelle Obama spoke at the commencement of Spelman College, the Atlanta, all-women’s HBCU.
Recalling the history of the university, from its start in 1881 with only 11 students to its current graduating class of 550 students, Michelle Obama compared their growth in size to a growth in leadership for the future.
