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Speeches

Best and Brightest

6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 11 – Ruby Diamond Concert Hall It’s a joy to be here tonight, and I am honored to have the privilege of speaking to you this evening. To the students we are recognizing today — congratulations!! You truly are the best and brightest of Leon County! And to the teachers and […]

Law Commencement

11 a.m. Sunday, May 1 – Civic Center Good morning. Welcome everyone, and a special warm welcome to all of the friends and family members who are here today. I know what a vital role you have played in the success of your student, and I know how proud you must be today. To our […]

Center for the Advancement of Human Rights 15th Anniversary

6 p.m. Tuesday, April 26 – Alumni Center Good evening. It’s a joy to be here to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Center for the Advancement of Human Rights and pay tribute to my dear friend, Sandy D’Alemberte. I’ve known Sandy for a very long time. To give you an idea how long, when […]

Tallahassee Urban League Annual Membership Campaign

6 p.m. Sunday, April 17 – Old West Florida Enrichment Center Good evening. I want to thank the Reverend Ferrell and Mrs. Maggie Lewis Butler for inviting Florida State University and me to participate in this important fundraising effort. I’m honored to co-chair this membership campaign with my friend, FAMU President Elmira Mangum. This is […]

Honors Night

6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 14 – Honors, Scholars and Fellows House Good evening. It’s a joy to be here tonight, and I am honored to have been asked to speak at your Honors Night Ceremony. Congratulations to each of the initiates, and welcome to the parents, family members and friends who have joined us today. […]

Phi Beta Kappa Initiation

3:30 p.m. Sunday, April 10 – Alumni Ballroom Welcome parents, family members and friends, and congratulations to each of our initiates. It’s an honor to be here with you today. I know that Phi Beta Kappa has a tradition of hosting very distinguished speakers. The best known — Ralph Waldo Emerson — delivered his “American […]