"You need to take charge, keep moving forward and realize that the current economic situation may actually provide you with some wonderful opportunities," she said.

Rogers gave the keynote address at the School of Law Commencement May 9. The ceremony followed the Commencement for Graduate Programs earlier in the day.

Legal skills are needed now more than ever, Rogers said. "There has never been a more critical time for caring and competent attorneys. And given the difficult times in which we live, there never has been a more critical time to step up to the plate and do pro bono work."

Rogers underscored the significance of providing all people--including those who cannot pay--with access to the court system. "If people lose faith in their court's ability to make sure that justice is done, they lose faith in the rule of law and our system of laws. It is not a leap to say access goes to the heart of a democratic society," she said.

Quinnipiac awarded 100 degrees, as well as two honorary degrees to Rogers and the Hon. Samuel S. Freedman, a judge trial referee for the Connecticut Superior Court in Stamford, Conn.

Freedman, who has also taught classes at the School of Law for 27 years, reminded graduates that character counts in the courtroom. "Every one of you has it in you to do good things," he said.

William Dunlap, voted "Professor of the Year" by the graduating class, gave remarks at the ceremony. He advised graduates to make the best of a bad situation by pursuing an unpaid internship or continuing with their studies.

After dispensing advice and telling a few jokes, Dunlap concluded with a rousing rendition of the Frank Sinatra song, "My Way," with revised lyrics about law school and the legal profession, to a standing ovation from the 2010 class.

Keith Zackowitz, president of the Student Bar Association, gave the student address. He echoed concerns about graduating during a recession, but encouraged classmates to have faith in their abilities. "We will find or create opportunities for work, for helping individuals, for making positive change. We will weather the storm of a tough economy," he said.

"The value of our degree is not found in its earning power, but in the opportunity we now have to shape the world we live in," Zackowitz said.

• View a recording of the live Web broadcast of the ceremony.
• Read the keynote address given by Chief Justice Chase T. Rogers (Adobe PDF)