In a philosophical, almost poetic, Linfield Commencement address, poet and L&C prof William E. Stafford, told grads ...

 

LINFIELD 1970 COMMENCEMENT

 In a philosophical, almost poetic, commencement address, May 17, 1970, Dr. William E. Stafford, Lewis & Clark College English professor, told Linfield graduates it is an "advancing presence we all inhabit" in that we have to "learn from events and from what keeps happening."

The nationally known poet said each person is growing toward a more complete self and "the encounters of four years are being celebrated today by you 185 graduates and your families.

"We keep learning; we're all the class of 1970," he reminded his audience.

The professor-poet drew on happenings for four years ago when the graduating class was just completing high school to remind them of the growing complexities of life.

Linfield gave the Rev. Samuel B. McKinney of Mount Zion Baptist Church, Seattle, baccalaureate speaker, the honorary degree of doctor of divinity and Dr. Stafford the honorary degree of doctor of letters.

The sunny weather made for a perfect commencement day and large crowds on the campus. For the first time in the school's history both baccalaureate and commencement were held outside among the campus oak trees.

–Source: Linfield College Oak Leaves 1970, page 175