For Rowan’s CHSS Class of 2016, a magical day of celebration

Yes, they walked across the stage to celebrate the completion of their degrees.

But Dean Cindy Vitto said the members of the College of Humanities & Social Sciences Class of 2016 earned something more in their studies. By choosing to study the humanities and social sciences—in essence following a “less defined path”--the 465 undergraduate and graduate degree graduates gained “magic,” which will serve them well as they move on from Rowan, Vitto said at the college’s Commencement ceremony on Wednesday, May 11.

Vitto, who presided over her final Commencement ceremony as CHSS dean, quoted children’s author Roald Dahl, who said that the “the greatest secrets are hidden in the most unlikely places.”

The “magic” gained by the graduates, she said, came from completing classwork that required them to view difficult topics from multiple perspectives—rather than seeking one right approach or answer. It was acquired by “living deeply” and looking through the lenses of other individuals, cultures and time periods, she added. And it was found through collaboration and teamwork, which required them to take risks and work with others different from themselves, Vitto noted.

A broader view

“Because of (your studies) you are graduating today with a broader view of yourself—and of life—than many of your peers possess. You hold the key to ‘magic’—to living your life in a more meaningful, more genuine way,” said Vitto, adding that the skills the graduates gained through their humanities studies make them invaluable to their future employers.

It certainly was a magical day for CHSS as graduates and their loved ones crowded onto the University Green to celebrate Rowan’s 91st Commencement.

New Jersey Senator Fred H. Madden, Jr., who served as the CHSS Commencement speaker, told the graduates their knowledge and skills are paramount in today’s workplace—and today’s world. Madden accepted an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University in recognition of his distinguished leadership and his commitment to higher education, the safety of the state’s citizens and to the law enforcement community.

Mentioning the College’s nearly 20 degree programs, Madden urged the class to utilize their studies in every area of their professional and personal lives.

“You’re moving into a world that really needs you,” Madden said. “Stay the course. Embody the highest ideals of professionalism. Your ethics are going to be challenged. The important thing is don’t let them be compromised.”

A different breed

Rowan grads are a different breed--and proudly so, said William Castner Jr., ’95, senior vice president of corporate and regulatory affairs at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Castner received the CHSS Medal of Excellence in recognition of his achievements in his field and leadership in his profession.

“You know, what’s great about my generation of Rowan grads—and this will carry on—is we have a little bit of a chip on our shoulders. I think that’s a good thing and I think we carry that on to our professional lives,” said Castner, acknowledging the class’ proud New Jersey roots.

“We are Rowan grads. We are practical. We are gritty. We are street smart. We don’t back down from fights. We’re hungrier than you are. And that’s why we succeed.

“You’re going to succeed…and you’re going to bring honor to this great institution.”