HOLMDEL - Years of hard work culminated with a walk across the stage of PNC Bank Arts Center for nearly 800 students on Wednesday afternoon as they officially became students of Monmouth University.
This year's spring commencement was notable for several reasons, including being the first for the university's new president Grey J. Dimenna, as well as the absence of 22 senior members of the men's lacrosse team who were unable to attend the ceremony because the team had advanced to the NCAA tournament.
The lacrosse team members and the university's 375 students were both scheduled to graduate in separate commencement ceremonies on the Monmouth University campus in West Long Branch on Thursday. This year is the first time the university has held a separate commencement ceremony for its graduate students.
Cosmetics pioneer Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and best-selling author of eight books on beauty, gave the commencement speech at Monmouth University's spring commencement at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel on May 10, 2017. (Rob Spahr | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com)
The ceremony's commencement speaker was cosmetics pioneer Bobbi Brown, who is the founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and the best-selling author of eight books on beauty.
Brown, who was awarded an honorary doctorate of public service degree, asked the students to remember at least one of four important pieces of life advice that she had for them: to be themselves, be nice, to learn balance and to have no fear.
"Don't be afraid of making mistakes, that's how you learn," she told the graduates. "Take the risk. Be courageous enough not to get discouraged. Be brave and take chances."
She also encouraged them to find balance in their lives.
"Work hard but work smart. Pay attention to your health. Breathe," Brown said. "Do the things that bring you joy. Try to work in a place that makes you happy. Your work culture is key. Don't forget about your family and friends."
Class President Matthew Sheehan said the graduates were part of "an amazing transformation" that took place at Monmouth University during the past four years.
This transformation included growth of university through the construction of new facilities, approximately 3,500 more applicants applying to the school this year than four years ago and athletic programs that have gained national recognition and helped to boost school spirit.
"I truly believe that the university is now at a better place than when we arrived, and it will only get better," he said. "This is a point in our life though that we need to work harder than ever. ... All it takes is having confidence in yourself and your goals, staying focused and not being afraid to be different."
Sheehan said Monmouth University challenged each of the graduates to explore life outside of their own comfort zones, which helped them to discover their passions and learn about life outside of their campus.
"Monmouth has successfully prepared us for our lives as leaders, role models and active participants in our communities," he said. "It is now our time to do the same for those around us."
Rob Spahr may be reached at rspahr@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TheRobSpahr. Find NJ.com on Facebook.