On the Commencement Day several years ago MIT’s President Paul Gray tripped on his academic gown and almost fell as he was climbing the ceremonial platform erected for the occasion in Killian Court. Although he managed to keep his balance, he inadvertently kicked one of the standing microphones, which fell on the head of a Civil Engineering Department graduate who was being photographed in front of the platform by his father. The blow was softened by the young man’s mortar hat, but he still had to be taken to the infirmary, where his wound was stitched in no time. President Gray, who was known to be very fond of students, accompanied the unfortunate fellow and his teary parents to the infirmary, and returned to his duties only when he was satisfied that everything was in order. Later on, when the young man came forward for his diploma with a formidable bandage on his head, President Gray shook his hand cordially and said: “My son, MIT is a hard-hat area, and don’t you ever forget it!” The entire Killian Court burst out laughing.