The kids picked Katie Couric as their class day speaker. It wasn't the kind of pick that gives one great hope for the future of the country, but it could have been worse, and it often is. University President Shirley Tilghman, on the other hand, has made the decision to invite General Petraeus to deliver the Baccalaureate address. The Daily Princetonian reports:

“He represents the very finest in military service in the U.S.,” President Tilghman said. “What he has done to reduce the violence in Iraq is miraculous.”

She added that she was surprised by his prompt reply last week.

“With asking people who are so busy, they have to consult their schedule, and it can take from a week to months to confirm,” Tilghman said. “I contacted him and got a response back in 20 minutes. I think he has a very deep affection for Princeton.”

Good for Tilghman, it will be the most interesting address in years. It will also provide an opportunity for some of the faculty to further embarrass themselves with half-baked protests and letters and sit-ins. Petraeus will also be addressing the commissioning ceremonies for Harvard and MIT ROTC. THE WEEKLY STANDARD has learned that General Petraeus is planning on delivering the commencement address at the University of Iowa in 2010*. Hmmm.

* This was meant as joke, though obviously it fell a little flat. Petraeus has no plans to go to Iowa that I'm aware, this year or next. I regret the confusion that has resulted from my clumsy attempt at humor.