Before we begin today's commencement exercises,

I would like to ask you to join me

in a moment of silence in solidarity

with and support for the thousands of survivors

of sexual and relationship violence,

and for the victims of the horrible tragedy that occurred

this morning in Orlando.

Thank you.

As events on our own campus and around the country remind us,

violence in all forms has become a scourge in our society.

As we celebrate this 125th commencement,

it is my hope that future generations of graduates

will see the end of violence in all our communities.

But if that is to happen, we must all

work to make that vision a reality.

History is a mysterious and malleable thing, constantly

changing, not just as new information

emerges, but as our own interests, emotions,

and inclinations change.

Each generation rediscovers and re-examines

that part of the past which gives its present new meaning,

new possibility, and new power.

The question becomes for us now, for you, especially,

what will we choose as our inspiration?

Which distant events and long-dead figures

will provide us with the greatest help, the most

coherent context, and the wisdom simply to go forward?

Believe, believe, as Arthur Miller told me

in an interview for my very first film

on the Brooklyn Bridge, believe that maybe you, too,

could add something that would last and be beautiful.

Good luck and Godspeed.

For 17 years, he served as a professor of philosophy,

engaged in teaching and research.

And for the last 16 years, he has

served as the university's Provost,

the longest-serving provost in our history.

It would be impossible to be here at Stanford without having

greatly benefited from the Provost's many efforts

over the past 16 years.

Provost Etchemendy's 16 years of service

have dramatically improved Stanford's ability

to carry out that noble mission.

Won't you join me in thanking the Provost

for his many, many contributions.

[APPLAUSE]

So as you leave, I hope you carry with you

a strong determination to make your own contribution

to a better world and to exemplify the best

of the Stanford spirit.

Know that nothing gives us, as your teachers and mentors,

greater joy than to see a former student succeed.

Make us proud.

I know you will.

Congratulations and best wishes.

[APPLAUSE]

For more, please visit us at stanford.edu.