Our Time 1998

I A » * X I MSA students and faculty entered the Convocation with the usual formalities, waiting in anticipation for the speech that would fulfill an annual tradition. Each person, upon entering the crowded gymnasium, was greeted by soothing piano music. These shimmering strands of harmony were provided by alumnus Brad Friedman, who returned for this remarkable event. After the gracious opening remarks of President Stephanie Pace Marshall, Principal Gregg Sinner, and Student Council President Jen Wang, the featured individual finally stepped up to deliver his speech. What happened to those bygone days of unauthorized Yare Runs, when students daringly defied any attempt to restrict their carefree ideals? That's the question Michael Peil, the keynote speaker, posed to his audience. As an alumnus of IMSA, he was aware of how the academy functioned. He noticed that the status of the student had slowly declined over the years, a situation he didn't appre- ciate whatsoever. Peil energized the audience with his words of inspiration, calling for an end to this stagnancy and a renewal of student power. He eloquently encouraged students to stand up for their rights, and pursue any change they believed the IMSA community should undertake, regardless of the consequences. "The greatest mistake we can make is not to make any at consequences. The greatest mistake we can make is not to make any at all," he warned. His speech influenced the student body profoundly, per- haps due mostly to the pleasant fact that he delivered the shortest Convocation speech in IMSA history—a mere eight minutes—and spared the audience an uncomfortable stay in the hot gymnasium. However, what few words he uttered planted seeds of defiance among the student body, resulting in a campus forum held in 03, where Peil himself was present to provide suggestions and advice. Michael Peil challenged IMSA students to "watch and listen." He insisted that the most valuable asset available to a student is his ability to observe, absorb, and learn from experiences. And here at IMSA, members of the commu- nity are exposed to new experiences daily. After all, "There is something special about this place," stated Peil, listing the achievements of several individuals within the student body. Consequently, he advised that IMSA students should not let their opportunity go to waste. They should make the most of every moment by seizing the power where they so rightly deserve it.