Shirley MacLaine tells New Mexico grads to imagine

SANTA FE, NM -- Shirley MacLaine wants the New Mexico School for the Arts' first graduating class to remember that there is nothing more important than imagination.

The Santa Fe New Mexican reports the Oscar-winning actress and part-time Santa Fe resident gave the commencement speech Saturday to 48 students at the Greer Garson Theatre.

Greeted with a standing ovation, MacLaine said the event was not about her.

She told students to use their imagination because that is what would create their sense of who they are.

MacLaine, known for roles in films such as "The Apartment" and "Terms of Endearment," spoke to the same group of students four years ago when the school first opened.

The actress has most recently been seen on television screens in "Glee" and "Downton Abbey."