Yesterday, I attended the Arizona State University commencement ceremony and saw President Barack Obama deliver a powerful message to the more than 60,000 people in attendance.
Though Obama was not scheduled to speak until nearly 8:00 p.m., my friend and I began our journey to Sun Devil Stadium at 2:30 p.m. We caught the new Phoenix light rail. It’s too bad this was my very first experience on the new light rail system because it was definitely not a pleasurable ride. The temperatures had exceeded 100 by this time and the train was jam-packed with people and…well…it was funky in there! But, I had a purpose and sacrificed my desire for personal space for the 7-8 minute ride that had me pushed up against damp body parts that I’d rather not discuss here – Ew-w-w!
We arrived to a massive, disorganized crowd of people. I was surprised at the lack of direction and signage available for such a large event. People were just mobbed everywhere and the event staff didn’t appear to have full command of the situation. It took over an hour to get into the stadium, but this didn’t bother me since I’d only be waiting once I arrived inside the outdoor stadium (Translation: There was NO relief from the undying heat!).
Despite the heat, I did have some fun, mostly because I love people watching. And with a crowd of more than 60,000 – I had lots to observe! I was frisked by a Secret Service agent upon entering the stadium. Later, as we entered the stadium, I saw sharpshooters strategically positioned outside the stadium. I felt safe and a bit freaked out all at once. One of the highlights was seeing Air Force One fly overhead just before 6 o’clock, because I knew Obama was finally in the area – the wait wouldn’t be long now!
After more than four hours of standing in lines and crowds, we finally settled into our seats. Thankfully the sun had set and a light breeze filled the outdoor stadium – ahh-h-h-h-h-h….
I saw the Secret Service SUVs and Presidential limo roll into the wings of the stage and knew the time was coming – I was going to see Obama live! As the American Anthem was sung, I teared up. But this isn’t too unusual. I’m pretty patriotic and will break into tears over any rendition of the anthem or the song “I’m Proud to be an American.”
After the usual pomp and circumstance, Obama spoke. Whew! It’s hard to describe how it felt to be in the presence of the graduating students, the educators and the President of the United States. As a professor (though not at ASU), I was overwhelmed by the magnitude of the student’s accomplishment and the university’s commitment to excellence; this is our future! As an American, I was moved beyond description at the opportunity to have a small glimpse into this historical presidency.
Obama’s speech was moving and included lessons directed toward the graduates. Yet, the message struck a chord with me too. You can read my re-cap of the message and the how Obama’s words apply to working moms in my Examiner.com column.
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