Around this time last year, I was perusing the Class of 2012 Facebook page soon after the announcement of our commencement speaker. The news was met with excitement by some, anger by many and calls for change by a few. Was this guy going to be relatable? Was he an accurate reflection of our student body? For many, the resounding answer was no.
I wasn't expecting much. Yet, as I sat in front of Roy O. on commencement day, his speech was not one of nostalgia, but rather an insight into what the world ahead of me would look like. It is something that I think of frequently as I wade my way through my first year outside of DePauw.
Whether you are unsettled, unphased or overjoyed with the commencement speaker, with Teach for America, or with anything else in the world, do not just sit on it. Do not let your discontent stop at an angry Facebook post or a whine session with your peers. Make meaning of it. Ask difficult questions of your speaker. If you are concerned with the organization attached to her name, challenge it. But make sure you really listen to her response.
As you graduate and move on to your next endeavors, you will find that true and critical discourse outside of the safety of academic quad is messy, uncomfortable and often incredibly inconvenient. Yet, it is entirely necessary. Like myself, many of you will soon find yourself entrenched in the realities of seemingly "noble and good" organizations and jobs. You will be incredibly challenged by this. Some of you will be angered at what you find. Use what you have learned at DePauw to make it better.
Perhaps, as you get ready to celebrate the end of your career at DePauw, this commencement speaker is exactly what you need. Make your thoughts known, listen to the thoughts of your speaker and make meaning - in whatever way you see fit - of one of your final experiences as a DePauw student.
Kelsey Moore '12