Remarks from Elisabeth Williams

Senior Dinner
May 8, 2004

Hello, my name is Elisabeth Williams, and I am Evan Williams’ daughter.

On behalf of my father and our family, I would like to thank the class of 2004 for the wonderful gift you have given tonight. I would also like to thank John Bates and Bon Appetit for their great generosity. My father would be profoundly moved and appreciative if he was here.

My father loved the rituals of college graduation and the continuity of academic tradition they represent. He was proud to be a part of Lewis & Clark College, and immensely proud of his students. He had tremendous faith in the abilities and potential of both. If he could be here tonight, he would be cheering your accomplishments vigorously and urging you on to more.

Some people find their religion in a church, but my father’s religion is here, in the halls of higher education. He is a passionate believer in the power of education, and put his heart and soul into his work. It has been tremendously gratifying over the past months to see his dedication reciprocated. We thank everyone— faculty, administrators, and students—who expressed their kindness and support this year.

Your gift is particularly appropriate because my father loved walking outdoors nearly as much as he loved teaching. He hiked through the canyons of New York City, in the Columbia Gorge, and last summer walked 14 miles a day in Wales. But I think this tree walk might trump them all in his estimation.

We thank you so much, we congratulate you on your graduation, and my father sends you his love and thanks.