ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Monday, May 20, 1996 TAG: 9605200116
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
Astronaut and University of Virginia alumna Kathryn C. Thornton told 4,300 graduates Sunday at the school's commencement that taking some chances in life is essential.
``It is your willingness to risk that will be the yardstick by which your success will be measured. The cost of taking risks can be very high, but the cost of not taking risks can be even higher,'' Thornton said.
Thornton used Christopher Columbus and 18th century explorer James Cook as examples of the rewards that can be gained through the courage to take risks.
``Risk is what life is all about. We press the envelope; try things that have never been done before, for the sake of learning,'' Thornton said.
In introducing the speaker, UVa Rector Hovey S. Dabney said Thornton has accepted a professorship in the university's engineering and applied sciences school, effective next fall.
Actor James Avery returned to his alma mater as well, Virginia State University in Ettrick, to address the 700 members of the class of 1996. Avery is perhaps best known for his recent role as Uncle Phil on the television comedy ``The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.''
``You're part of the lucky few who made it. You survived the dangers of foolish choices, raging hormones and your own 18-year-old brilliance,'' Avery said.
But, Avery warned, the world can't depend on old-fashioned remedies for problems.
``It's up to you,'' he said. ``You will take us to the stars.''
The 131 graduates of Sweet Briar College heard from Dawn Riley, team captain of the first all-female crew to compete in the America's Cup.
Riley told the graduates that when barriers are broken, ``The first one or two people to do it get bloodied and bruised. The next few people get some scratches. But for the rest, there are no barriers.''
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