Bloomberg Addresses Grads, Channels Oprah

By JONATHAN LEMIRE
Daily News City Hall Bureau

Mayor Bloomberg spoke at Medgar Evers College commencement today, congratulating the graduates on their achievement and inspiring them with words of wisdom from, yes, Oprah.

Dressed in cap and gown, Bloomberg addressed the lively crowd with the words of the former daytime talk show queen.

"I take to hear the words of a woman whose dynamic example has meant so much to so many - Oprah Winfrey," said the mayor.

"She said, ‘You have to do the one thing you think you cannot do,' Bloomberg said. "'Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time. The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. This is your moment. Own it.’"

Hizzoner also celebrated the somewhat unusual demographics of the Medgar Evers class, which included three sets of husband and wives, a father and daughter, a mother and son, a pair of sisters, and a 74-year-old graduate.

"That’s extraordinary. It’s inspiring," said Bloomberg. "By embracing the adventure of learning, you’ve not only enriched your own lives. You’ve set a fantastic example for others to follow."

The other graduation speakers included Medgar Evers president William Pollard and Thomas Todd, a noted civil rights lawyer.