Dukakis said the Democrats also have work to do, particularly in attracting the support of white males.

"African-Americans, Hispanics and women are the new party base," he said. "That means we have to go after white males."

"Civil rights, abortions, gay rights-white males look at these issues, and they're not especially relevant," he said.

The national press corps also attracted Dukakis' ire, because, he said, it obscures the issues and does not represent America.

"Part of the problem with national parties is that the national press corps is certifiably insane," he said.

"The election is barely warm, and they're already taking polls for 2000. When they ask about [Texas governor and presidential prospect George W. Bush], half the people think he's his old man," Dukakis added.

He concluded by encouraging the audience to pursue politics and public service.

"You can make a difference, folks. You can make an enormous difference," he said.

Dukakis, who currently teaches at both Northeastern and the University of California at Los Angeles, pointed to his own life experience as an example.

"My mission in life at this point is to get kids involved in public service. That's why I teach and speak at college campuses," he said. "I can't think of a more fulfilling way to have spent my life. It's terrific."

Audience members said they appreciated Dukakis' message, especially given his extensive political experience.

"He's been there as the leader of our party, and he'll always be a voice in Democratic politics," said Joe Sanberg '01, events chair for HRCD.

"He's a great speaker, and an inspiring voice for young people," added Sanberg, who is also vice president for the College Democrats of Massachusetts.

Dukakis' informal style and sense of humor also appealed to the audience.

"He really connected with most of the audience," Ali A. Valenzuela '02 said. "He had us riveted."

A Swarthmore College graduate, Dukakis could not leave without a few digs at Harvard.

"What makes a great teacher? They should care deeply about their students, have an enthusiasm for their subject, and their door should always be open," he said. "Does this happen at Harvard? No. That's why you're all paying $37 billion a year to go here."