Bhutto speaks, but not many hear

editorial cartoon by Stephanie Lesniak
editorial cartoon by Stephanie Lesniak

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Benezir Bhutto spoke at the University of La Verne to students and faculty on Monday. Bhutto came to speak at the request of her cousin, Dr. Ahmed Ispahani, professor of business administration and economics. She spoke of democracy, justice, elections and the media. Her speech was positive and those in attendance gave very favorable and high remarks about Bhutto’s comments. This being said, would it not have been beneficial to the University if more students were invited to attend?

College is a time of enlightenment. It is a period in one’s life that questions are not only formed but answered. It is a chance to trek through the fields of opportunity and finally reach the peak of one’s inner self. This transformation should be filled with the readings of classic literature, educated professors and speeches from political leaders. Is the University of La Verne any different?

Luckily, we are not much different. It is a rare luxury for students to hear speakers who have been generous enough to come to La Verne. Rep. Jay Kim (R-Diamond Bar), actor Alan Alda, director Jon Turteltaub, Rev. James M. Lawson and Nation of Islam member Tony Muhammad all have given speeches on campus to inform students about issues concerning this country and this community. Bhutto is the first prime minister to speak on the University campus and it seems that more students would have been enlightened and informed had they heard about the event.

Whether it was because of campus security or a simple case of short notice, students should be allowed to participate in events such as these. Only a selected few were allowed to attend. Approximately two to three classes were invited, much to the dismay of those who found out too late that the honored former prime minister was on campus.

Students learn valuable information in the classrooms from their professors, but how else can a student get to look through the proverbial window into the real world of politics, economics, business and the arts, unless it is from speakers who can share the dilemmas and inspirations of their work.

As for the former Prime Minister, she was here privately visiting Dr. Ispahani, he said. He added, “we did not have the time to plan this. I asked her to speak to my class and she said she was delighted to attend. She was available to speak on such a short notice.”

Dr. Ispahani added that in order to get “celebrity series” speakers, the University has to pay “big money.” But, he said, the school and the departments do occasionally get speakers who are high profile.

For those fortunate enough to attend the lecture, it was an experience to listen to a woman who, in Dr. Ispahani’s own words, has accomplished many firsts. Bhutto’s remarks were insightful and educational and the event should be remembered as a high point of La Verne history. For those who were not privileged enough to get an invitation to the event, there will be other equally enlightening speakers who will grace the campus of the University, so be prepared.

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