Good afternoon President Bottomly, Governor Patrick, trustees, alumnae, distinguished guests, faculty members and students. It is an honor to be here today to welcome you to the Wellesley College community on behalf of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. As a resident of Wellesley and a graduate of a women's college myself, I fully appreciate the tremendous role that Wellesley College plays in promoting women's education in Massachusetts and, indeed, across the globe. It is the education offered here at Wellesley that has opened the doors of opportunity and allowed women to take their place along side our male counterparts in all arenas -- regardless of your own political views, I think we can all agree that it is no coincidence that the first viable woman candidate for President of the United States is a graduate of this institution.

Madame President, your accomplishments are impressive and extensive. You have been a leader in bringing women's educational issues, particularly those related to women in science, to the forefront of the American consciousness. As president of Wellesley College, you are in a position to continue that leadership and to insure that many more women are given the tools that they need to succeed in this area. Like many Massachusetts legislators, and like our Governor, the provision of excellent education to all residents of the Commonwealth is my highest priority and I look forward to working with you on issues of higher education during your tenure here at Wellesley College. President Bottomly, it is with great pleasure that I extend a very warm welcome to you from the Massachusetts legislature.

Thank you.