Peter Seligmann is a global conservation leader with nearly 40 years of experience. He co-founded Conservation International and Nia Tero, helping protect over 1.8 billion acres worldwide. A Rutgers and Yale alum, he now chairs Silvania, a natural capital fund, and teaches at Arizona State University. He also serves on several nonprofit and corporate boards, continuing his lifelong work for a healthier, more equitable planet.

Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health Commencement
Let Us Know What You Think
Did you enjoy Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health Commencement? Do you think that there is anything we could do to improve the experience in the coming years? Take our survey and let us know.
Closed captioning is available. The entire presentation is now available for on-demand viewing.
Rutgers University 259th Anniversary Commencement | Full Ceremony Recording
259th Anniversary Commencement Day of Program Information
Information included in the 2025 digital Commencement program is now available.
Peter Seligmann
2025 Commencement Speaker
Peter Seligmann is a pioneering conservationist and global environmental leader with nearly four decades of experience advancing equity, ecological health, and economic vitality. A Rutgers University alumnus and co-founder of both Conservation International and Nia Tero, Seligmann has helped protect over 1.8 billion acres of land and sea across more than 100 countries, benefiting millions of people. He currently serves as chair of Silvania, a natural capital fund, and is a distinguished professor of practice at Arizona State University. Seligmann also sits on several nonprofit and corporate boards, continuing his lifelong commitment to a healthier planet for all.

Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipients
These individuals have distinguished themselves by making major contributions to their professions and communities.
Laurie L. Patton, president of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences since 2025, is a scholar, poet, and leader in higher education. She was the first woman to lead Middlebury College, advancing conflict transformation and sustainability. A South Asian religion expert, she held key roles at Duke, Emory, and Bard, authored 11 books, translated The Bhagavad Gita, and led major academic societies.
Rajiv is a social entrepreneur and president of the Institute for Citizens & Scholars, working to advance civic education and engaged citizenship. A Princeton alum and child of Indian immigrants, he co-leads national civic learning efforts and has shaped the field through research, media, and policy.