Source: Daily News Tribune
http://www.dailynewstribune.com/localRegional/view.bg?articleid=73009&format=&page=1
On May 22, 2006 Daily News Tribune reported, "The Waltham community shrank yesterday morning when Brandeis held its 55th commencement exercises, as the university sent more than 1,000 graduate and undergraduate students into the global community. Jordan Prince El Hassan bin Talal, brother of the late King Hussein, delivered the keynote address at the ceremony, which was held at the Gosman Sports and Convocation Center on South Street. 'It is fantastic for me to be invited here to Brandeis, a university well-known for its academic excellence, unique cultural perspective and commitment to social justice,' said bin Talal. 'I am delighted to join you for what is a window into a successful and fulfilling future.' Bin Talal described Brandeis as a testament to the ideal of unity in diversity, and centered his speech around the importance of people throughout the world, regardless of religion or race, cohabiting and working together to address problems facing humanity. 'Our challenge, your challenge, is to draw on our collective wisdom to put a shared vision into action,' he said. 'We have no alternative.' Bin Talal also encouraged the graduates to express their views, and remember that the art of conversation is not a martial art. He added the graduates should never stop thinking creatively about the future, which will allow humanity to reach its unrealized potential... Bin Talal was given an honorary degree at the commencement as a leading international advocate for interfaith dialogue and understanding, as well as in recognition of his achievements as an author and statesman."