The New School’s 71st graduation ceremony, held at the Theater at Madison Square Garden last Friday, was rather sedate compared to last year’s commencement. Last year, pro-war Senator John McCain’s selection as the speaker caused an uproar and he — and New School President Bob Kerrey — came under fire at the podium from the graduates. This year, the commencement address was given by Shirin Ebadi, winner of the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts on behalf of women’s and children’s rights. Ebadi, an Iranian lawyer and human rights activist, also was awarded the University-in-Exile Award. Other honorary degree recipients included humanitarian Larry Brilliant, conductor/musician JoAnn Falletta, jazz musician Chico Hamilton, NASA climate expert James E. Hansen and theater and film director Arthur Penn.
