Martin Sheen, an award-winning actor, social activist and humanitarian, delivered the commencement address at La Roche College, Saturday. He also received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from the college for his efforts as a peace and social justice campaigner.
"This college is about building better children for our world. It's very clear that they are sending young people out into the world to be a light and an inspiration and energy," said Sheen.
The graduation ceremony for 302 students (262 undergraduates and 40 graduate students) coincided with the Catholic college's 50th anniversary.
Sheen has starred in over 100 films. His recent roles include playing President 'Josiah Bartlet,' in the television series 'The West Wing,' and as 'Uncle Ben' in the 'The Amazing Spider-Man' (2012).
Apart from films, he is involved in humanitarian activities like anti-poverty programs, homelessness, immigration laws and better treatment of immigrants and the elimination of nuclear weapons. He was also against the U.S. invasion of Iraq.
Sheen said that graduate students should not be scared to voice their opinions and raise concerns over illegality, ill-treatment, poverty among other issues. "Every truth begins as blasphemy."
Sister Candace Introcaso, La Roche President said that Sheen was selected as their commencement speaker because his various social campaigns reflect the college's mission.
Sheen is the third prominent celebrity invited to the college as part of its golden anniversary celebration.
Apart from Sheen, Former Sen. George Mitchell, D-Maine and New York Times foreign affairs columnist Nicholas Kristof delivered important lectures at conferences held last month.
After resigning from the U.S. Senate, Mitchell travelled to Northern Ireland and Middle East and engaged in peace processes.
