Department Chair, Professor Mary Kelley, welcomed the guests and introduced speaker John U. Bacon, Class of 1986. A widely-published writer, he entertained and informed the audience with stories of individuals who changed the course of history because they were the right person at the right time. Citing his own path, he encouraged the graduates to follow the career direction that is most meaningful to them, assuring them that the money will come later if they do what they love.

John Bacon recently finished his fourth book, with former football coach Bo Schembechler, titled Bo's Lasting Lessons: A Legendary Coach Teaches the Timeless Fundamentals of Leadership. It will be published in fall 2007 by Warner Brothers.

Following Mr. Bacon’s talk, each of the graduates was invited to the stage for individual recognition. They were presented with a certificate from the department by Professors John Carson and Paolo Squatriti and were greeted with a well-deserved round of applause from proud families and friends.

The faculty and staff of the History Department join the families in extending congratulations and best wishes for the future to each new historian in the Class of 2007.

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