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Abrahamson to UW grads: 'Where are you going?' (with photos)

Chief justice praises Wiley, reminds audience to vote

Rob Schultz  —  5/17/2008 8:11 pm

Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson gave graduating students some directional advice during a commencement address Saturday afternoon at the Kohl Center.

"Where are you going? That thought should occupy you your entire life," Abrahamson told University of Wisconsin-Madison students who received bachelor's degrees from the College of Engineering and School of Business; master's degrees in accountancy, business administration, engineering and science; and an executive master's degree in business administration.

Abrahamson's three pieces of advice included a tribute to retiring Chancellor John Wiley, who is presiding over UW commencement ceremonies for the last time this weekend.

The chief justice said Wiley has led a successful life and led the UW through major growth in many different phases because of his passion and commitment. She added that students would be wise to develop those qualities in their lives.

"He cares," said Abrahamson of Wiley. "He's made a lasting imprint on the university, the city of Madison, the state of Wisconsin in the spirit of the Wisconsin idea."

Abrahamson then urged "graduates and guests to let your voices be heard to protect democracy. ... We must be committed to democracy and justice."

She said our society relies on justices to be fair, neutral and impartial. But, Abrahamson added, the people are just as important to the success of democracy and justice.

At a minimum," Abrahamson told students, "you should vote."

Her last piece of advice related to the global community where we live. She said we must seek a world where our rights, such as freedom of speech, are protected. It should be a place, she added, that is "free of discrimination, free of poverty and filled with justice and filled with peace."

The loudest applause during Abrahamson's speech came after she told graduates who have been busy "parting, partying and packing" that "You're out of here!"

Rob Schultz  —  5/17/2008 8:11 pm