This Issue
Summer 2009 - Department | Headmaster’s Column
The Commencement Ceremony Class of 2009
The following was the final portion of the commencement speech delivered by Headmaster Dr. Val Iwashita on June 6.
When I was a few years younger than you current seniors, I heard President John F. Kennedy say that “the torch had been passed to a new generation of Americans.” Those were stirring words then, and they became more so recently as Hawaii and the nation cheered the election of the first person of color to the office of President of the United States. Irrespective of political persuasion or perspective, it was a great moment for America. When America elected Barack Obama as its President, it voted for competence, confidence, hope, drive and ambition – values that trump a grim history of racial injustice and bigotry. I believe that such a statement is one in which all Americans can take pride. The American dream is indeed alive and well.
I’m sure President Obama would be the first to admit that he did not accomplish his victory alone. Throngs of supporters and workers nationwide helped to make it happen.
You, the Class of 2009, will continue your achievements in college and beyond. Even as I speak, that torch is being passed to you. There will be challenges, disappointments and successes along the way, but knowing firsthand your talents and skills, your work ethic and determination, I am confident that we will continue to sing your praises for many years to come.
As you leave the comfortable confines of Iolani School and as you experience other transitions that are sure to come, remember whence you came. In the Japanese language, there is a phrase that reads: Okage sama de. It means, “I am who I am because of you.” Surrounding you are many of the people who helped you become who you are:
We have a reciprocal relationship, you and I. Just as we have shared ourselves with you, ‘Iolani School has benefited from your membership in our school community. The Class of 1959, here with us today, you who are about to graduate, and the many others who have walked our halls have all contributed to our legacy, our tradition and our standing as an educational institution. We have much for which to be grateful.
On behalf of the faculty and staff of ‘Iolani School, I thank you for all you have done for us; thank you for the privilege of serving you.
Okage sama de.
I’m sure President Obama would be the first to admit that he did not accomplish his victory alone. Throngs of supporters and workers nationwide helped to make it happen.
As you leave the comfortable confines of Iolani School and as you experience other transitions that are sure to come, remember whence you came. In the Japanese language, there is a phrase that reads: Okage sama de. It means, “I am who I am because of you.”In our own way, we also have depended upon others for help and support. We are here this afternoon as a fortunate few, participants and partners in the best that education has to offer.
You, the Class of 2009, will continue your achievements in college and beyond. Even as I speak, that torch is being passed to you. There will be challenges, disappointments and successes along the way, but knowing firsthand your talents and skills, your work ethic and determination, I am confident that we will continue to sing your praises for many years to come.
As you leave the comfortable confines of Iolani School and as you experience other transitions that are sure to come, remember whence you came. In the Japanese language, there is a phrase that reads: Okage sama de. It means, “I am who I am because of you.” Surrounding you are many of the people who helped you become who you are:
- Your teachers who expected more from you than you thought you could give, and always provided the help you needed to achieve excellence
- Your friends and classmates who helped you through difficult times
- Your advisers, counselors, coaches and staff members who guided and supported you
- Your parents and relatives who provided for you and loved you
We have a reciprocal relationship, you and I. Just as we have shared ourselves with you, ‘Iolani School has benefited from your membership in our school community. The Class of 1959, here with us today, you who are about to graduate, and the many others who have walked our halls have all contributed to our legacy, our tradition and our standing as an educational institution. We have much for which to be grateful.
On behalf of the faculty and staff of ‘Iolani School, I thank you for all you have done for us; thank you for the privilege of serving you.
Okage sama de.