ORONO, Maine (AP) — Sen. Susan Collins has told University of Maine’ graduates she hopes they apply their talent, energy and enthusiasm in the state.

The state’s largest university held its commencement Saturday at the Harold Alfond Arena on the school’s campus in Orono. Degrees were awarded to 2,123 graduates.

Collins used the example of Alex Haley, the grandson of slaves who wrote “Roots: The Saga of an American Family.” She said his motto was “find the good and praise it.” She added: “and join it.” She noted the decline of civility and the need for unified, community-based efforts to change the tone of public discourse.

The school is also awarded honorary doctorates to Collins and Peter Vigue, the chairman and CEO of Pittsfield-based Cianbro construction company.


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