[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 19 (Monday, May 14, 2007)]
[Page 622]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Commencement Ceremonies at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, 
Virginia

May 11, 2007

    Today and tomorrow, students of Virginia Tech will rise to receive 
the diplomas they have earned through years of hard work. They can be 
proud of their academic accomplishments and excited about the 
opportunities their degrees have opened up for them.
    Laura and I salute the Virginia Tech class of 2007. We also remember 
the students and teachers whose lives were taken last month. They will 
always hold a special place in the hearts of this graduating class and 
an entire nation.
    Over the past month, our country has witnessed the compassion and 
resilient spirit of the community at Virginia Tech. That spirit is on 
display this weekend in Blacksburg, where thousands of friends and 
family members have gathered to celebrate commencement and pray for this 
remarkable school. Our Nation joins them in prayer. And on this special 
occasion, Laura and I send our love and heartfelt wishes to the entire 
Hokie family.