Rutgers University will mark its 250th anniversary commencement in grand fashion next month: President Barack Obama will address the graduates.
“This is the first time in Rutgers University’s history that a sitting president has agreed to speak at commencement,” said university President Robert Barchi, who added that the New Brunswick campus is "delighted" about Obama's appearance.
The commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 15 at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway. More than 12,000 graduates and 40,000 guests are expected to attend.
“President Obama’s decision is a testament to the enthusiastic efforts of Rutgers students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as members of the New Jersey congressional delegation, who sent numerous messages to the White House urging the president to join our 250th anniversary graduation ceremony,” Barchi said.
Since granting its first degree in 1774, Rutgers has awarded more than 550,000 degrees.
