also succeeded--after more than four centuries of male domination--in coming to live officially in the Harvard Yard."
Bok said that these 200 "pioneers" would foster "an aura of graciousness and scholarly virtue" in the Yard.
Bok said that students can attain their aspirations with the help of a college education although he emphasized that other experiences--factory work or travel--are equally valid.
A college education is valuable because it fosters openmindedness, tolerance and disciplined thinking, he explained.
Commenting on a second important function of college, Bok said: "The college years should also provide an atmosphere which makes it easier for each of you to decide what you wish to do with your lives following graduation."
Bok capped his speech by admonishing students to see college as more than just a passageway to the future. He said Harvard should be one of the happiest and most valuable periods of our lives" and encouraged the class of 1976 to "have a wonderful four years."
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