Class of 2009- You Are About to Close One Chapter of Your Life While Simultaneously Opening

Commencement 2009

May 15, 2009

Class of 2009- you are about to close one chapter of your life while simultaneously opening another. But before you close that chapter- let us think back almost four years ago. All of us, including me, arrived at Ramapo to begin a journey that held out the prospect of change; the prospect that we, and Ramapo, would be different as a result of our time here.

And in your four years at Ramapo change has been omnipresent. Physically you have seen the opening of the Anisfield School of Business, complemented by the announcement of the additional gift by Dick and Millicent Anisfield to finish the 5th floor, which will be completed this summer; you have witnessed the groundbreaking and near completion of the Sharp Sustainability Education Center and the Salameno Spiritual Center and most recently, the renaming of Oak and Maple Halls to honor our revered Student Affairs administrators, Pam Bischoff and Nancy Mackin on the occasion of their impending retirement.

Politically, you have seen a change that many of your great grandparents, grandparents and even parents would never thought possible; the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States. And individually, the change has been transformational because of what you have become during your tenure at Ramapo College.

Throughout your time at Ramapo you have acquired an education grounded in the liberal arts- the cornerstone upon which you will build your futures. The ability to think critically and analytically, and to communicate clearly and concisely in solving complex, real world problems are skills that will distinguish a Ramapo class of 2009 graduate. These are the skills that leaders possess and the skills that a more diverse and interdependent world will need.

And your class has demonstrated that leadership comes in various forms. From continuing the traditions of Octoberfest to walking all night to raise funds to fight cancer to competing on our athletic fields, you have shown a camaraderie and spirit that is infectious. For those who have excelled in the classroom, presented papers internationally, served the less fortunate, gained an international perspective or worked full-time to support themselves in order to reach today, we have seen a perseverance and commitment to success that is remarkable.
So, as you turn the Ramapo page and begin that next chapter, I thank you for what you have added to this College and for what you will continue to add as Ramapo College alumni and I offer you and your families my warmest congratulations.