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Commencement
2025 Trumpet Fanfare

259th Anniversary Commencement Day

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259th Commencement Ceremony 

Photo Credits to Roy Groething

 

Graduating Students

Congratulations Class of 2025! Graduates' names from Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health are showcased on our website for families and friends from around the world to view. 

Share you Commencement moments and join in the excitement. #RU2025 #RUGrad #RUCommencement

Graduate faces

Dr. 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.

Peter Seligmann 259th Anniversary Commencement Speaker

Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree Recipients

These individuals have distinguished themselves by making major contributions to their professions and communities.

Peter Seligmann 259th Anniversary Commencement Speaker
Commencement Speaker

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.

Laurie L. Patton
Honorary Doctor of Letters

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 Vinnakota
Honorary Doctor of Laws

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.

Jack Ramirez
Student Speaker

Jack Ramirez, is graduating magna cum laude with a major in political science and a minor in critical intelligence studies. A leader in RUSA and Sigma Chi, he received the Distinguished Leadership Award and the Women’s Empowerment Award. As RUSA president, he led public safety and health initiatives. In Sigma Chi, he served on the national board and as chapter historian, fostering leadership and connection among members.

Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health Commencement Program Booklet

The official 259th Anniversary Commencement program booklet is available for download.

Single-page view program booklet 
 

2025 Program Cover