Delivered in Latin by Dan-el Padilla Peralta
(English translation)
Given at the Academic Assembly of Princeton
On the Sixth of June
The Year of our Salvation 2006
The 259th Year of the University
My companions and the people of Princeton:
I
salute you! Muse, remind me of the causes, with which divinity
appeased, with which professors bribed with money, we have been called
together to stand here today. Tell me the story, Muse, of the crafty
students who -- having written so many letters for their theses --
received only one in return, a letter which was sometimes the cause of
joy and sometimes the cause of wailing. So great an effort it was to
overcome our academic labors.
Hated to me like the gates of
Hades is that man, who always wears Nantucket Reds and Lacoste. When I
came to this very distinguished University four years ago, I was not
able to understand why it was so pleasing to you, my fellow students,
to be decked out in purple or pink. Today I confess the truth: I still
don't understand. But I have learned in my studies how Princeton
students celebrate once they're done with their work: They go to Quad
or Colonial to shake their sides and haunches -- a marvel to behold!
And I say this thing to you: Some among us cannot dance to a rhythm.
It
is necessary for me also to confess this to our parents: We came to the
walls of Princeton not only to study, but also to drink Milwaukee's
Best (or should I say "Beast"), and to eat pizzas at Frist, and to play
with our very beautiful classmates. Truly all the students who pass
through the FitzRandolph Gates have one night of love of which they are
ashamed. Today let us walk out with this truth deep in our minds.
I
have not yet arrived at the end of my speech, because a few more
important things must be said. A woman is the leader of the deed:
President Tilghman, who in five years has accomplished so much for the
University. Dean Nancy Malkiel, we thank you -- even if you promised to
lower our grades. Trustees of the University, without whom there would
be no University: With you as its leaders Princeton advances to better
things. Finally, I salute Dean Fred Hargadon, who opened the doors of
the University to us: We give him the greatest thanks.
My allies
in harsh affairs: Our fame will be bounded by the stars, and our names
will be imperishable. I thank you for your friendship and support. I do
not doubt that in the future we will all flourish in the diverse walks
of life. Cicero wrote, "Wisdom would not be sought out, if it could not
accomplish anything." Keeping in mind these words, let us use our
knowledge for the glory of Princeton and the advancement of humankind.
Friends, take care and farewell.
