I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered together at the White House–with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined here alone.

More from John Fitzgerald Kennedy

• A city of southern efficiency and northern charm.
• All of us do not have equal talent, but all of us should have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.
• A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on.
• Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.
• Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men.
• Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty.