Senator Stabenow to speak at commencement
By Page W. H. Brousseau IV
TIMES STAFF WRITER
Michigan's junior senator, Debbie Stabenow, will be the commencement speaker for University of Michigan-Flint's (UM-Flint) newest graduates on December 15. Sen. Stabenow won a narrow victory over incumbent Sen. Spence Abraham in 2000. Prior to the senate, she served two terms in the House, one term in the Michigan Senate, and six terms in the Michigan House. She is a graduate of Michigan State University, and worked in public schools before running for office.
When asked about her view of UM-Flint and goals as commencement speaker, she said, "I'm very impressed with U of M Flint, not only as an institution but as a very important part of the Flint quality of life. When I speak to the graduates there, I hope to inspire them to believe in themselves and have confidence in the future. I want to convey to them a sense of how the world is changing and how, in a changing world, we all need to continue to learn."
Throughout her 20-25 high school and college commencement speeches she has given over 20 years, she has sought to base her commencement remarks on her recollection of her own graduations. "I recall being very excited and enjoying the chance to celebrate with my family," the senator recalled, despite not remembering who spoke at her graduation. "I always keep that in mind -- this isn't the speaker's day, this is the day for the graduates. It's always very inspiring to see everyone, because you know they've worked so hard and have so many hopes for the future."
© The Michigan Times 2002
