MU Graduates 981 in Ceremony at Art Center

Holmdel:  Guest Speaker Dr. Mark Emmert brought reality and humor to the Monmouth University Commencement on Wednesday when he asked grandparents in the audience to “Please stand” for being the only attendees who were absolute certain, from the first day their students began college, that they would graduate. He said parents, even students had doubts, “but not their grandparents.”  His request saw quite a large number stand and receive hearty cheers .

Emmert told the anxious grads they would succeed. They would gain the benefits of advancing their education through financial rewards and success in participating more than the average citizen in leading others. “Also, fewer will move back home and venture forth on their own on life’s course,” he said smiling, and getting a chuckle from the audience.

Emmert is president of University of Washington, and fifth president of the NCAA.

An honorary degree was awarded to MU Graduate Joan Rechnitz ’84 who co-founded the Two River Theatre Company with her husband, Dr. Robert Rechnitz in 1994. She spoke of her zest for art and the determination to create. She has been an active philanthropist and great supporter of arts and community organizations in Monmouth County.