News Release

Malibu, California - United States Office of Personnel Management Director Kay Coles James today encouraged graduates of the School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University to consider careers in the Federal government. In her commencement speech, James emphasized the need for their talents.“ Within a few short years, a tremendous amount of knowledge will be gone from the civil service because of retirements; we need to minimize that by encouraging a new generation of leaders to work for the Federal government. You are that generation.”

Speaking to an audience of students, parents, and faculty at the Malibu, California university, James said the graduates are the response to the call of President George W. Bush for Americans to live out the nation’s promise through civility, courage, compassion, and character. “The difficult assignment you have undertaken is vital to the strength and future of our great country,” remarked James. “I congratulate each and every one of you and hope you are instrumental in returning the solid values of patriotism, civic community, and family back to the American conscience.”

Emphasizing the contributions they will make, James said “graduating will launch you on a journey that is impossible to predict but so wonderful to imagine. This is one of those wonderful milestones in life that you will never forget.”

Kay Coles James was appointed OPM director in July 2001 by President Bush. Director James is the President’s principal advisor in matters of personnel administration for the 1.8 million members of the Federal civil service. James’ receipt of Pepperdine’s honorary Doctorate of Laws Degree is her seventh honorary degree.

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OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with up-to-date employment information. OPM also supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve work force performance.

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