First, remarks addressing the possibility for demonstrations made by a
university spokesperson prior to our commencement ceremony were
directed at behaviors that had the potential to be disruptive and get
seriously out of hand.  They were not directed at expressions of
peaceful dissent.  Peaceful protest was not discouraged and, in fact,
has long been an integral part of this university's culture.  You may
be interested to know that there were expressions of dissent at our
ceremony as a few people stood and turned their backs to the podium
as President Bush rose to speak.  This expression of dissent was
peaceful and did not disrupt the proceedings for those (parents,
students,  friends and relatives) who wished to enjoy and celebrate
the commencement ceremony. There were no arrests associated with
expressions of dissent and no one was asked to leave the proceedings.

Second, remarks asking for a "thunderous ovation" were
directed toward outgoing university president, William
Kirwan, and not President Bush as was erroneously reported.
This was Dr. Kirwan's last commencement ceremony at Ohio
State as he is leaving to accept a new position out of the
State of Ohio.

We will continue to express our desire that our commencement
ceremonies be enjoyed for what they are: celebrations of the
remarkable achievements of our graduates.

Lee C. Tashjian, Jr.
Vice President
University Relations
The Ohio State University