University Commencement is the most joyful day on the Rutgers calendar. It at once celebrates our nearly 13,500 students receiving degrees this year (a record number) and honors the excellence of our faculty in preparing these women and men for lifelong learning, rewarding careers, and civic engagement.

I salute the accomplishments of our graduates, thank our faculty and staff, and also congratulate our continuing students as they complete another year of study at Rutgers. In my final months as president, I take special pride in this community of scholars and wish you all continued success.