Commencement letter from John F. Kennedy (1956)

In: Springfield College Commencement Papers;

Abstract

This letter is from Senator John F. Kennedy (who later became the 35th President of the United States) and is addressed to Jennie R. Cournoyer. Jennie Cournoyer served as the secretary in the Alumni Office at Springfield College for over 40 years, retiring in 1961. Kennedy is thanking her for the issue of the Springfield Student that was sent to him in April of 1956. Kennedy served as the main speaker at the 70th Commencement Ceremony at Springfield College on June 10, 1956. The graduating class that year had 343 students. His speech discusses how a new era is coming for New England and students should have high hopes for their futures and what is to come. He talks about how politics, economics and services in Massachusetts are also changing and therefore new ideas are necessary from the graduating students.