Class of 2009 honored at Commencement

Speaking to the inaugural graduating class of the school that now bears his name, Michael Maurer encouraged law students to honor the profession, and to find ways to give back to those places and people who made them who they are.

The IU Maurer School of Law honored the class of 2009 Saturday, conferring 194 JDs, 23 LLMs, and 16 SJDs to students at the IU Auditorium.

Maurer, JD'67, who donated $35 million to student scholarships in Dec. 2008, delivered the Commencement address. The Indianapolis businessman and philanthropist told students that they are joining the workforce during tough economic times, but also exciting times in terms of opportunities.

"When I graduated, I sensed a world of extensive opportunities," Maurer said. "I don't think it's any different today. We're still in America. This is the land of opportunity. This is a wonderful time to be out in the profession."

Maurer was a pioneer in the development of cable television in the Midwest, and went on to found the National Bank of Indianapolis, where he still serves as chairman. He told graduates that he always surrounded himself with lawyers in whatever business venture he was pursuing, because of their unique ability to think and to solve problems. But with the power of a law degree comes great responsibility, he said.

"Find a way to give something back," Maurer said. "Money is important, but volunteering is even more important." Maurer said it was critical that the graduates practice the profession of law honorably and with decency.

"It won't be what you practiced, or how well you practiced. It will be how you practiced," he said. "The truly great lawyers are kind, with sound ethics, who give back to their communities, and who practice with manners and civility."

Blake Thomas, JD'09, elected the student speaker by his peers, thanked the dedicated faculty members who helped him and his classmates succeed.

"A roller coaster is a great analogy of what we've been through," Thomas said. "We felt that initial ascent, with boundless enthusiasm, then the loops and thrills, and finally, that gradual coast as we came to a stop. The speed at which these last three years went by is indicative of how the next 10 to 20 will be."

Indiana Law Dean Lauren Robel congratulated the graduates, and wished them luck in their future endeavors.

"I know this School transforms lives," she said. "It is in the character, dedication, and discipline of our graduates. Do not be daunted. You will have great happiness, great successes, and great adventures. This is a great School. You will make it better. You will make it greater."