Commencement 2004

Brokaw urges graduates to become the next ‘greatest generation’

NBC anchor shares observations on challenges ahead

[read the full speech] [audio: NBC Anchor Delivers 2004 Commencement Speech MP3 16.3MB]

Northwestern conferred 4,383 degrees, diplomas and certificates June 18 during its 146th commencement exercises.
The ceremony began under light drizzle, prompting some in the Ryan Field crowd to raise umbrellas or take cover under the upper deck. But Tom Brokaw, “NBC Nightly News” anchor and main commencement speaker, lightened the mood and, apparently, the clouds as he jokingly paid tribute to the administration for “having the courage to go forward, even though the skies seem to be threatening.”

“Love your country and always think you can improve it.” — Tom Brokaw

photo by Andrew Campell

A few laughs became a roar as he razzed other Big Ten schools that would never take such a chance.

Graduates and their families, faculty, administrators, fellow honorary degree recipients and members of the Class of 1954 then settled in and listened as Brokaw displayed his signature style and passion through his take on the world new graduates have inherited, one colored by the events of 9/11, the war in Iraq and the struggle against Islamic extremists.

In presenting a number of real world lessons, he stressed that every presidential election is important and worthy of participation.

“We’re still in a process of self examination about our failures and oversights, our association with like-minded societies and those who have turned against us. And, of course, we’re in a daily state of re-evaluation about the wisdom and efficacy of the political, legal and military response to the shattering and horrific events of 9/11,” he said.

“The essential question really is: Have we made America a larger target, not a smaller one, by our response? Have we made America a greater nation or a lesser nation?

“That examination and the dialogue that goes with it are not always perfect. There are outrageous and destructive claims across the spectrum of opinion, from left to right and back again. But the fact of this robust debate is a bold statement that the cherished traditions of participatory democracy remain, shaken but not shattered by the assaults from suicide bombers or home-grown demagogues,” he continued.

In completing this thought, Brokaw drew another round of applause when he opined, “The vigorous exchange of ideas is such a critical component of determining our once and future course, it is incumbent on all of us to be vigilant against the temptations to silence criticism or honest questions whether from the left or the right. If we are the defenders of freedom abroad, we must be the stewards of it at home as well. The first amendment was never intended as a blunt instrument to punish contrary points of view.”

Brokaw then took time to salute the young men and women who’d come 60 years earlier, the ones fighting for their lives and world freedom during World War II. “The greatest generation,” as he calls them, gave today’s graduates “a priceless legacy for your own unique and profound set of challenges.”

“Remember them as you leave here to change the world and the circumstances you have inherited. Share their excitement in the opportunities before you, however taxing they may be. And most of all, anticipate the satisfaction of history’s judgment that you did not fail,” he said.

He concluded with a simple yet demanding set of directives.

“Remember to love your mother, mother earth. Hate hate. Become color blind. Love your country and always think you can improve it. Go forth from here and become the next greatest generation.”

— S.A.

[read the full speech] [audio: NBC Anchor Delivers 2004 Commencement Speech MP3 16.3MB]