Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, May 15, 1995 TAG: 9505160033
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: A-8 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: HAMPTON LENGTH: Medium
Foster, the commencement speaker at Hampton University, used his own example as why the graduates should continue reading and learning throughout their lives.
``The need for analytical and critical thinking was never more apparent than during my recent Senate confirmation hearings,'' Foster told the 937 graduates.
But ``the system seems to be working,'' said Foster, who underwent two days of hearings earlier this month. ``Most of the senators who had only read or heard about me have kept open, critical minds.''
In Williamsburg, former President Bush, capless but gowned, received a rousing welcome and told the graduates that success in life demands some service to others.
``There is something special, very special, about the kindness of a neighbor helping someone he might not even know. I don't mean you have to run for public office,'' Bush told the 1,800 graduates at the College of William and Mary. ``It means getting off the sidelines and being a doer, not a critic.''
At Southern Virginia College in Buena Vista, Del. Lacey Putney, I-Bedford, talked to the 40 graduates about the special relationship between the college and the city. Many businesses and industry have closed, but the leaders of the college have rallied behind the city, Putney said. ``The school has stood as a beacon of light on the hill.''
In Lynchburg, 175 graduates of Randolph-Macon Woman's College heard Richmond attorney Sylvia Clute speak. Clute, who last year challenged U.S. Sen. Charles Robb for a Democratic primary, said, ``Each of you, in your own way, will provide leadership. Today we ask, will you find a better way?''
by CNB