Lt. Gov. Way to give commencement address for Ramapo College

Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way will be the commencement speaker at Ramapo College of New Jersey for its undergraduate ceremony, to be held May 29 at the Prudential Center in Newark, the school announced.

Ramapo President Cindy Jebb said Way is the perfect choice for the honor.

“Lt. Gov. Way is an inspiring public servant and sincere advocate for the students of New Jersey,” she said. “She is a leader who exemplifies Ramapo College’s commitment to developing empathetic problem solvers, ethical change agents and responsible leaders. Her influence and decision-making continues to enhance the quality of life for all New Jerseyans.”

The lieutenant governor said her commitment to education and leadership mirrors the values of Ramapo College.

“As this year’s graduating class looks to set out into the world, representing the best of what an education from a New Jersey institution has to offer, I look forward to providing words of encouragement as they enter the next chapter of their lives,” she said. “This talented group of graduates will undoubtedly make their mark as the future leaders of our state and country.”

The Class of 2024 includes more than 1,160 degree candidates. Nursing major and first-generation student Nashari Payano, of South Amboy will address her classmates as the undergraduate student speaker.

The Honor Guard is composed of graduates selected by their respective school deans for their scholarship and contributions to Ramapo College. The following students will lead their schools during the ceremony by carrying their school’s gonfalon and addressing their peers:

  • Dynazia Holness of Camden, School of Social Science and Human Services;
  • Rojja Kharel of Kathmandu, Nepal, School of Humanities and Global Studies;
  • Anna Kozan of Lincoln Park, School of Theoretical and Applied Science;
  • Mia Schutz of Metuchen, School of Contemporary Arts;
  • Chris Vedra of Maywood, Anisfield School of Business.

Madison Weeks of Mount Laurel was selected by the Student Government Association to carry the Ramapo College gonfalon.