Page 7 - 1964

To the Class of 1964 —
When my great-grandfather graduated from Harvard in 1829, he had completed

a course of study which encompassed virtually all there was to know about science.
4 his was not uncommon. At that time it was possible for a man to become a doctor
or a lawyer simply by studying for a few years under the tutelage of one learned
in the profession.

Indeed, between my great-grandfathers time and today, all the fields of knowl­
edge have expanded so rapidly that the most recently trained biologist, physicist,
scientist or engineer requires of himself constant study or some refresher training
in order to keep pace with the development in his field.

In the late 1800's the fiction of Jules Verne stirred the imagination with descrip­
tions of submarines and airplanes. One of the favorite comic strips 25 or 30 years
ago was Buck Rogers in the Twenty-fifth Century. Now, in the course of one
generation, we are rapidly approaching the wildest dreams of that comic strip.

Yours is an exciting world; the challenges for which you are in training are
great; the opportunities are limitless. You have finished your elementary educa­
tion. Your parents, the faculty, and I are proud of your achievements, and we
feel that you are well-grounded for your next step — the secondary school years.

I he early mariner on his voyage always kept his eyes upon a guiding star. I
urge you to select your star — your goal, taking full advantage of the possibilities
of your education, preparing yourself for the ever-expanding opportunities of
your life-time. You might keep in mind these words of Robert Browning, “A
man's reach should exceed his grasp, or what’s a heaven for?”

Our best wishes go with you always.
Sincerely,

Jackson Bird

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