"No matter what your philosophical or political persuasion, the president represents all of us," Card said.

And Card said his call to public service went beyond ideological lines.

"Disagree with me, argue with me, run against me," Card said. "I want you to get involved. I want you to care."

Dean of the Kennedy School of Government (KSG) Joseph S. Nye introduced Card, joking about his one year at KSG while he was a Mass. State representative.

"Andrew Card is to the Kennedy School what Bill Gates is to Harvard College," Nye said. "He may not have a degree, but he's done everything the Kennedy School believes in."

And Card said he felt confident that today's graduates from KSG would use their education well.

"Every student I knew when I was here went on to do wonderful things, and I'm sure each of you will find similar success," Card said.

--Staff writer Imtiyaz H. Delawala can be reached at delawala@fas.harvard.edu