School made good choice

Dick Enberg is an excellent choice as this year's commencement speaker. With ties to IU, he provides an understanding of the University and his accomplishments do not go unnoticed. \nEnberg received his undergraduate degree in 1957 from Central Michigan, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He was also the student body president, balancing that with playing baseball. He went on to receive a masters. and doctorate from IU in health sciences.\n His profound academic career sets a great example for graduating seniors. His Hoosier ties give a sense of unity and pride to the University.\n Enberg is also an excellent speaker. He has been a commentator for nearly every major sporting event. He has received the Sportscaster of the Year Award nine times. Someone with these accolades is a great honor to have as a commencement speaker.\nIt would be impossible to please everyone with the selection of a commencement speaker. Enberg did not receive his undergraduate degree from IU. But John Mellencamp, a past commencement speaker, never attended IU but did receive an honorary degree for his donations to the University. \nEnberg also does more than comment about sports. Aside from his 12 Emmy awards, he is the only person to receive a national Emmy as a sportscaster, writer and producer.\nHe is also the spokesperson for the Verizon Academic All-America Teams program and host of the Verizon AAA Hall of Fame. His concern for solid academics sets a good example for graduating seniors.\nWith a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Enberg brings his celebrity status to Bloomington when he could be at the Kentucky Derby, the largest horse racing event of the year.\nCommencement moved inside to Assembly Hall this year. Because around 34,000 people attend graduation, it will be split into two ceremonies. Enberg will be responsible for the commencement speeches at 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.\nThe IDS applauds the decision to find someone with national recognition and ties to the University. Enberg embodies strong motivation to graduating seniors and should provide a pleasant addition to commencement.\nStaff vote: 6 - 4 - 3\nyes - no - abstain