If the saying "every drop of rain is good luck" holds true, the Seton Hall University class of 2012 graduates are bound to lead extraordinary lives. The 155th Baccalaureate Commencement ceremony was held on May 21 at the Izod Center amid an angry spring storm.
Scott Chesney, a Seton Hall alum ('92) and motivational speaker of the Raise Hope Foundation, served as keynote speaker to the 1,290 graduates.
Chesney talked to the students about the drive through life that they will take, highlighting the importance of "passion and purpose" in life, at which point he put the spotlight on Professor Michael Reuter.
Sharing a special poem that his father gave to him shortly after his paralysis hit in 1986, Chesney read, "It's okay think and worry and to cry, it's okay to do whatever you have to do, but just remember too that eventually you are going to adjust to the changes that life brings your way."
Chesney shared another personal anecdote about coaching his son in track and field, reminding the graduates to try their best and have fun each day.
"The journey is yours," Chesney said, "Each and every one of you is on a unique journey. It will never be replicated, never be duplicated."
Class President Audra Quintin addressed her classmates during the ceremony as well. "This piece of paper is the concrete foundation to your future, built by education, love, memories, friendships and choices," Quintin said of the diplomas.
"Failure will dictate your victories," Quintin said as she advised her fellow classmates to "get their feet wet" as they continue life post-grad.
The other student speaker was Valedictorian Andrew Felbinger, who lead the audience in a chant: "We are Seton Hall."
"Today, we graduate as one," Felbinger concluded, after reminiscing about his acceptance letter and sights like the University Christmas tree.
Kenneth Hackett, former president of Catholic Relief Services, was presented with an honorary degree.
Rev. John J. Myers, Archbishop of Newark spoke as well.
University President A. Gabriel Esteban, whose daughter Ysabella Maria was among the graduating class, reminded the graduates to not forget their alma mater.
"Some of you will become CEO's of major corporations, or maybe create the next Facebook," Esteban said. "Wherever you go on your journey, please remember Seton Hall," he added.
Check out exclusive Commencement 2012 video playlist at http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCB266870ABA71B82.
Charlotte Lewis can be reached at charlotte.lewis@student.shu.edu.
