Whitman, Baker to highlight commencement weekend speakers

Three generations of Princeton alumni will stand at the podium this June at commencement ceremonies.

Former Secretary of State James Baker '52, a member of the Class of 2002's grandparent class, will give the Class Day address, while eBay chief executive Meg Whitman '77, a member of '02's parent class, will deliver the Baccalaureate address.

The graduating class chose Baker for his experiences as a public servant and insight they thought he could provide on current events, said senior class president Spence Miller. Miller selected Baker with Class Day chairs Wade Rakes '02 and Ayse Tanyeri '02 after soliciting their classmates' suggestions.

"Secretary Baker has distinguished himself to this great nation and to this University throughout his life," Miller said. "As a member of our grandparent class, a class that has given so much to us, he shares a link with the great class of 2002."

"He can offer several insights into our class concerning life after Princeton and especially share his opinion about current events, especially the continuing war effort," Miller added.

President Tilghman selected Whitman after consulting with faculty, the chapel dean and Class of '02 officers.

Miller praised the selection and said Whitman's undergraduate career at the University and her experiences afterward would help her design an address for graduating seniors.

"As a member of our parent Class of 1977, she can reflect upon her 25 years since she graduated and offer us advice on what to expect in our upcoming 25 years," he said.

The Organization of Women Leaders also lauded the selection. "It's really exciting to see female graduates as active in shaping the future of Princeton as all the male alumni. Whitman is a great example for current female undergrads in terms of staying involved and giving back to the University," OWL officer Kate Lynn Shirmer '03 said.

Whitman recently contributed $30 million to the University to build a sixth residential college. However, University Vice President and Secretary Thomas Wright '62 said the senior class's selection of Whitman preceded the announcement of her contribution.

Miller said he had received a "very positive response" to the selection of Baker, though some students thought he did not have broad enough appeal.

Seating for the Baccalaureate Service begins for graduating seniors at 1:30 p.m. in the University Chapel on June 2. Simulcasts will be available at sites throughout campus. Class Day ceremonies will be held June 3 at Cannon Green, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Seniors, their guests, and other members of the University community are invited.