Remarks at the Pennsylvania State University Graduate School Commencement in State College, Pennsylvania

Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents, May 20, 1996

You know, the president mentioned earlier that - or maybe it was the chairman of your board - about Pennsylvania's role in starting this country. And I want you to think about this as I close. Our Founding Fathers, who did so much of their work right here in Pennsylvania, would not be surprised that in this new era, with all of its possibilities, there are still a lot of tough problems. They were very smart. They knew there would never be a perfect, problem-free time. They wouldn't be surprised at all. But they would be very surprised and bitterly disappointed if we were to give into pessimism about these problems, deny their existence, and walk away from them. They knew - you can read it in "The Federalists Papers," you can read it in the founding documents - they knew that freedom requires responsibility and service for personal prosperity and for the common good.

You graduates have been blessed with the richest educational experience the world can offer. As Americans, you've been blessed to inherit the greatest country on Earth. Now you have to honor that debt by asking yourselves, what do I want my country to be like in the 21st century, and what am I prepared to do to make it a reality?

I will do all I can to give you the opportunities to make the most of your lives, but you must do all you can to assume responsibility for yourselves, your families, and your communities. If you do that, I believe your life will be a lot happier and richer and you will surely make the 21st century America's greatest days.

Thank you. God bless you, and God bless America.

NOTE: The President spoke at 3:11 p.m. at the Bryce Jordon Center. In his remarks, he referred to Graham Spanier, president; Leslie Arnelle, chairman, Board of Trustees; John A. Brighton, executive vice president and provost; Rodney Erickson, professor, Pennsylvania State University; and Thomas Hollander, president, Pennsylvania State University Alumni Association. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate issue.