This episode is from the WNYC archives. It may contain language which is no longer politically or socially appropriate.

Opening seven minutes music.

Invocation by William Turner Levy.

Dr. Joseph B. Cavallaro, chairman of the Board of Education introduces the commencement speaker, New York Governor W. Averell Harriman.

Harriman addresses the graduating class. He speaks about the good fortunes of this generation, who are graduating ten years after the end of World War II. He also talks about economic issues. Particularly he notes that it is necessary for the United States to provide economic aid to under-developed countries - which will aid in the spread of democracy.

Harriman also talks of the threat of atomic warfare and the need for deterrents against madmen with their "finger on the button."

Dr. Buell G. Gallagher confers and honorary Doctor of Laws degree on Jonas E. Salk.
Deputy Mayor Henry Epstein presents Salk with the "Salk Medal" for his great achievement and bringing honor to the city of New York with the development of a vaccination against polio.

Pierre Donzelot, on behalf of the French government, bestows the Chevalier of the Legion of Honor.

Audio courtesy of the NYC Municipal Archives WNYC Collection

WNYC archives id: 70100
Municipal archives id: LT979