Former President Bill Clinton addresses graduating class at Clinton School commencement ceremony

Former President Bill Clinton gives the commencement address Sunday at the Clinton School of Public Service's graduation ceremony.
Former President Bill Clinton gives the commencement address Sunday at the Clinton School of Public Service's graduation ceremony.

Former President Bill Clinton told students to enhance the positive forces of an interconnected world and provide a positive vision for the future while speaking Sunday to the 10th graduating class at the Clinton School of Public Service.

"The main thing is you’re stuck with this world," Clinton said. "You cannot take a pass. You will either help the positive forces of interdependence to advance or by inaction or incorrect action, you will facilitate the world you do not want to live in."

It was the third time the 42nd president had spoken at the school, founded in his name in 2004. He gave the commencement address at the first graduation ceremony and filled in a year later for his wife, Hillary Clinton, who was secretary of state at the time and unable to attend.

"Thank you for living the change you advocate," he said. "It's exceeded my wildest dreams."

In the 25-minute speech, Clinton encouraged graduates to create a world of equality based on a shared humanity.

"We don’t have anybody to waste, and we should be lifting the capacities of all people," he said. "The definition of us should get a little bigger, and the definition of them should get a little smaller."

He also told attendees, which included Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola, former Sen. David Pryor and former governor Jim Tucker, to remain optimistic, despite the world's problems.

"Ninety percent of life pivots on your attitude," Clinton said. "Everybody makes mistakes, and everybody endures failure. What's important is what you do next."

After his address, the 41 students receiving their Master in Public Service were given their hoods and walked across the stage to shake Clinton's hand.

"This education you have is an incredibly empowering gift," he said in closing. "It’s up to you to make it the most exhilarating, prosperous and peaceful time in human history."

Read Monday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.

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Clinton School of Public Service graduate Joyce Akidi shakes hands with former President Bill Clinton at the school's commencement ceremony Sunday.

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