As part of any graduation-day ceremonies, the commencement is always a highly anticipated part of the proceedings. Part of that, the commencement speaker stands a key part of the ceremony. This year, as nearly 2,800 students’ degrees are conferred, the largest pool in Stevens history, the commencement speaker will be none other than the Governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy.
Governor Phil Murphy, born in 1957, was elected Governor of New Jersey in 2018 following a career of excellence across disciplines. After working for over 20 years with Goldman Sachs, he became the American Ambassador to Germany under President Obama. This year, he also holds the position of chair of the National Governors Association. His policies range from mental health awareness to the protection of communities, like immigrants and LGBQTIA+. In his time as governor, he has led New Jersey to have more green energy and to be more environmentally friendly, while at the same time introducing many new companies to diversify the economy of New Jersey.
In an article from Stevens, President Farvardin offers insight into the selection and honor of selecting Governor Murphy as the commencement speaker. He explains, “At Stevens, we are in lockstep with the governor’s efforts to expand the innovation economy in New Jersey, to reverse the ‘brain drain’ that exports talented students out of state for college and careers and to improve mental health and wellness, especially among young populations. It is a distinct honor that our graduates, poised to begin a new chapter in their lives, will hear a keynote address from a leader who has distinguished himself in the state, national and international arena. I look forward to celebrating the achievements of our students, faculty and staff with Gov. Murphy.”
As 71% of the Stevens students graduating this semester will be employed in or around the New Jersey area, the successes and work of Governor Murphy will directly affect many of the students conferring their degrees. As Stevens welcomes their next generation of graduates, Governor Murphy will also be conferred an honorary doctor of business administration degree. On what will surely be a celebratory day, Governor Murphy will give a welcoming commencement address as the Stevens graduates begin their lives.
