TULANE TALK

March 10, 2006

Good Morning:

I’ve always felt, in light of what we’ve experienced over the last few months, that this year’s commencement will be a special one. Just how special was made plain this week when George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States, and William J. Clinton, 42nd President of the United States, agreed to be the keynote speakers at Commencement 2006.

As you know, Presidents Bush and Clinton first joined forces to raise funds for the victims of the 2004 south Asian tsunami. Then, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, they formed the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund, which has raised more than $100 million to date, some $30 million of which has been dedicated to 33 higher educational institutions in the Gulf region, including Tulane.

The whole world has admired how these two leaders have risen above their political differences, harnessed their formidable skills and galvanized the generosity of the American people. Their partnership provides a lesson for all of us.

Please join me as we welcome our two former presidents and salute the graduates of this historic class, May 13 at 9:30 a.m. in the New Orleans Arena. For a full schedule of Commencement 2006 events visit http://www.grads.tulane.edu/.

Have a great weekend,