Lange did not shy away from political commentary, telling the 2008 graduates they were inheriting a heavy burden from an administration that had waged an unnecessary war, established prison camps, condoned torture, and eliminated habeas corpus. But her call to action was not partisan — it was existential. She urged them to resist the commercial forces surrounding them: the constant assault of media, fashion, and entertainment; the celebration of mediocrity and false celebrity; a society placated by gadgets and soothed by consumerism. Against all of that, she said, 'You are our hope. Cherish this time in your life. Remember who you are.'