2018 Articles

Address to the Columbia College Class of 1958 on their 60th reunion

Pollack, Robert

The document titled "Address to the Columbia College Class of 1958 on their 60th Reunion" by Robert E. Pollack, delivered on June 1, 2018, is a reflective speech that commemorates the 60th anniversary of the graduating class of 1958. Pollack, who was a freshman at Columbia College in 1958, shares his personal experiences and memories from his time at the college, emphasizing the continuity and connection between generations of Columbia alumni.

He begins by revisiting a speech he gave in 1989, reflecting on the enduring relevance of the values and lessons he shared with the graduating class at that time. Pollack recounts stories from his own college years, including his interactions with influential mentors like Professor Robert Belknap, and humorous anecdotes that highlight the changes at Columbia over the decades. He also reflects on the challenges faced by previous generations, particularly the class of 1939, who graduated on the brink of World War II.

Throughout the speech, Pollack underscores the importance of maintaining a connection with the college and with one another, stressing the value of the lessons learned at Columbia—lessons that include listening, speaking truthfully, compromising on everything but principles, and always asking for help. He concludes with a reading of W.H. Auden’s poem "September 1, 1939," which captures the complexities and challenges of the modern world, while also serving as a reminder of the enduring power of love and human connection.