Words of wisdom for the Class of 2013

From a courageous political figure to the CEO of Twitter, these five commencement speakers offered inspiring thoughts to the communicators of tomorrow.

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Many of us have heard that salutation while sitting at commencement ceremonies. What usually follows are words of encouragement, empathy, and wisdom as the new graduates prepare to embark on their chosen career paths.

This year was no exception.

The actress who plays Olivia Pope on “Scandal” would agree: Storytelling is still one of the best ways to engage your audience. Never underestimate the power of compelling content to create understanding of your brand or organization. Do your homework, research the demographics of your audience, and identify the emotional triggers that would motivate their participation.

2. “Every generation must define itself. If you must find your own path, and we have left you no easy path, then decide now to choose the hard path that leads to the life and the world that you want.”—Stephen Colbert, author and TV host, at the University of Virginia

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