Maria Schneider '85E (MM) '24 (Honorary) | Eastman's 2024 Graduation Speaker

A glimpse into Maria Schneider's beautiful message to the Eastman Class of 2024: "Just look at this bounty. It's like a harvest. Yesterday, you were only seeds. Your parents, maybe step-parents and grandparents, watered you and watched you sprout. Then teachers, friends, and communities helped you to leaf out and grow. The master gardening happened here at Eastman. Maybe you experienced a few hailstorms... a lightning strike, a drought? But did you know that without adversity, trees produce very weak wood? You made it, you persevered, and your achievement deserves celebration. Congratulations, Eastman graduates."
Thank you for your wisdom and your words, Maria. We are honored to count you among our esteemed ranks of alumni!

[@brayerteague]

It was a privilege to be in attendance to hear these remarks live. Appreciative ESM has made them available to hear again. Wonderful message!