Aug. 31, 2009
Chief Justice Welcomes Newest OSU Graduates
In his welcoming remarks Sunday during Ohio State University’s 389th commencement, Supreme Court of Ohio Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer spoke of the importance of civility in answering the difficult questions and prodigious challenges that will face this graduating class.
“Civility requires respect – respect for ideas, respect for persons, and respect for the institutions that have held together our nation in times of revolution, civil war, and economic uncertainties,” Chief Justice Moyer said. “When passion enflames our differences, the American tradition draws us back to our more formal appreciation for civility – our laws, our constitutions – the documents that embody our principles and ideals that make us uniquely American.”
He urged this latest generation to act as the guardian of the ideals outlined in society’s laws and constitutions.
Read the full text of Chief Justice Moyer's speech.
Chief Justice Moyer’s 50-year relationship with Ohio State began in the late 1950s as an undergraduate student. A native of Sandusky, he earned his B.A. and J.D. degrees from Ohio State in 1961 and 1964, respectively.
His numerous awards include recognition as one of 40 outstanding alumni in 1987, at Ohio State’s 300th commencement. He also served as chair of the OSU Alumni Association Board of Directors from 1997-99. Additionally, Chief Justice Moyer received an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Ohio State in 1993.
First elected in 1986, Chief Justice Moyer is serving his fourth term on the Supreme Court. His current term expires Dec. 31, 2010. He currently is the longest serving chief justice in the United States.
His extensive public service career, which encompasses portions of five decades, has included service as an appeals court judge, executive assistant and deputy assistant to the governor, and as an Assistant Attorney General.
Contact: Chris Davey or Bret Crow, 614.387.9250.