University of Tampa - Moroccan Yearbook (Tampa, FL)

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FAREWELL MESSAGE TO THE CLASS OF 1951 By E. C. Nance. President The topsy turvy condition of the world, the uncertain destiny of the future of our civilization, the wistful mood in which all of us face each day arc current facts that presents a real handicap to optimism and hope. In another age two thousand years ago—when the immediate prospects for the peace and prosperity of the human race were just as bleak and black as they are now, the Apostle Paul defined faith as . . Assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen. In the trying years ahead we shall all be turning to St. Paul’s resume of the glorious history of the past (the eleventh chapter of Hebrews) for refreshment of our morals and courage. In a brief, paragraphic summary of the achievements of many heroic men and women who had labored, fought and died for the just and righteous cause of humanity Paul tells us that they— Through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought rigtbeottsnvts, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, waxed mighty in war, turned to flight armies of aliens.” Today, we sec in these words of St. Paul history, prophecy and promise, and we must face the future with these stirring words in our hearts and believe with St. John that This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Nietzsche said many foolish things, as every man does in the course of his life, but he left one timely exhortation which we might ponder with profit, Throw not away the hero in thy soul. Dr. Johnson once said of Oliver Goldsmith ‘ He would be a great man if he realized the wealth of his internal resources.” We hope that you have received from the University adequate professional preparation, plus, if you did not already have these when you came to us, a better understanding of and a deeper love for our country; a keener sense of the responsibilities and obligations of citizenship in our democracy; the training and the will to think straight and fearlessly; a sound understanding of and a quickened interest in the common problems, hopes and aspirations of the world community; an intelligent desire to see justice, righteousness, goodwill and peace established among all nations; a love of truth, beauty and goodness wherever you find them. You leave your beloved Alma Mater with the full support of our fervent prayers for your welfare, happiness and success. God Bless You