Kenneth Chenault  Photo © Nathan Mandell

Convocation honors more than 1,000 new MBAs as American Express CEO delivers inspiring address

The mercury in Evanston rose above 90 degrees June 14 at the Kellogg School's Convocation, but the balmy day saw thousands come out to celebrate as members of the school's Full- and Part-Time MBA Programs formally completed their management studies.

Holding paper fans, cold cloths and iced beverages, friends and family joined with Kellogg faculty, staff and guests to honor the accomplishments of more than 1,000 new graduates. Attendees heard a stirring speech by Kenneth Chenault, chairman and CEO of American Express, who praised the Class of 2006.

"The greatest reason for hope is in front of me in caps and gowns: a new generation of business leaders who will enhance the quality of life for all," said Chenault. "A successful company in the hands of a good leader is one of the greatest forces in society."

The event, hosted in Northwestern University's Welsh-Ryan Arena, afforded Dean Dipak C. Jain a chance to encourage graduates and their families to embrace "active positivism," optimism that he said was essential for achieving academic excellence and personal success.

 "Let learning continue to be your guide," said Jain.  "When you reflect on your Kellogg experience, remember the importance of having good people around you ... Always know that whatever challenge lies ahead of you is not stronger than the support and strength of those behind you."

Delivering the main Convocation address was Chenault, who offered his views on the contemporary business landscape.

"The world you are entering is not in love with business. The public is skeptical," said Chenault, who noted that good leaders overcome these obstacles by earning the public's trust and loyalty through socially responsible conduct.

Chenault, who holds a juris doctorate from Harvard Law School and a bachelor's degree in history from Bowdoin College, emphasized that successful corporations exist because society allows them to, a privilege leaders must not take for granted.

"We need to operate legally and morally. We need to conserve, renew and enhance society's resources, not consume them.  That is our obligation," he said.

Success is predicated on integrity, he said, defining the term as more than simply telling the truth, calling it a marker for keeping one's values ahead of one's goals.

"Have a noble purpose and pursue it with all your energies. Build respect for business in this country and around the world. Be authentic," Chenault urged.  "When you speak up, you need to be accurate. You need to be able to back up what you say. Build, cherish and guard your integrity, and whatever else you do, don't leave home without it."