The University of Tennessee gave out approximately 1,470 undergraduate and graduate degrees at its Summer 2000 commencement on August 11. The graduation was the first summer commencement for President Wade Gilley.

It was a great ceremony, Gilley said. I could tell the students were really excited about finally getting their degrees.

When asked what advice he would give to the graduates, Gilley said they should never give up.

Be persistent about everything, Gilley said. Work hard.

Graduates, along with their friends and families, filled the Thompson-Boling Arena to hear the address of Knoxville College president Barbara Hatton. She urged them to use their enhanced educations to benefit the outside world.

Public investment in your education not only benefits you in the form of jobs, salaries and other purposes, but can also benefit your family, your community, your culture and your country.

She told them to go as far as they could with their degrees and to make their alma mater proud.

Our colleges are judged by what you do with the education you receive, Hatton said. Your good work will reflect on your educational institution and encourage others to continue the tradition you represent.

Hatton, former president of South Carolina State University, came out of retirement in 1997 to take her position at Knoxville College. She encouraged the graduates not to put boundaries on their futures.

Think about what you want your life to be in 10 years, Hatton said. Pledge to yourself to make it happen. You can create your future. Do not be content with just getting a job. Be bold. Live audaciously.