In Deo Speramus
Rohde, shown here accepting his honorary doctorate: Even if you are not religious, you can have ideals and hope.
‘Make hope your god’
David S. Rohde ’90, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter for the New York Times, delivered the 2010 Baccalaureate address on Saturday, May 29. Reflecting on his seven months of captivity with the Taliban, he advised the seniors that life will humble them. Do not despair, he said, and do not blame others without cause. Show compassion, think for yourselves, and remain open and optimistic.
A note about the occasion
The Baccalaureate Service, with roots in medieval academic tradition, honors the achievements of the candidates for the bachelor’s (bacca) degree by presenting them with the laurels ((lauri) of oration. Brown’s service is conducted in the Meeting House of the First Baptist Church in America, completed in 1775 “for the Publick Worship of Almighty God, and also for holding Commencement in.” Significant portions of the University’s Commencement ceremonies have been held in the church ever since.