After years of courses, research papers, lectures, midterms, and finals, it's time for students to graduate. One of the last rites of passage for students before pursuing their careers is the graduation ceremony. But before receiving their diplomas, students have one last opportunity to bask in the wisdom and experience conveyed by those who deliver the commencement address. This compilation of commencement speeches features a variety of successful individuals including two presidents, two first ladies, and other accomplished public figures. Their stirring words fuel excitement and generate optimism for the future. With remarks that range from funny to sentimental—and imbued with important social and cultural commentary-these timeless speeches will motivate listeners to move forward with zest as they enter the real world. Speeches include:

—President Barack Obama at Notre Dame University (May 17, 2009)
—Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at New York University (May 13, 2009)
—British Prime Minister Tony Blair at Yale University (May 25, 2008)
—National Endowment of the Arts Chairman Dana Gioia at Stanford University (June 17, 2007)
—Secretary of Defense Robert Gates at the United States Military Academy at West Point (May 23, 2009)
—Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney at Regent University (May 5, 2007)
—Senator John F. Kerry at Dartmouth College (May 27, 2007)
—First Lady Barbara Bush at Wellesley College (June 1, 1990)
—President John F. Kennedy at American University (June 10, 1963)
—Secretary of State George C. Marshall at Harvard University (June 5, 1947)