Celebrating the Class of 2025: A Week of Graduate Excellence at Rutgers
Two incredible celebrations, one shared moment of pride.
In mid-May, the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) at Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers Health proudly celebrated the remarkable achievements of our graduate students. The week marked two unforgettable milestones:
On May 14, 2025, we honored 399 Ph.D. graduates at Jersey Mike’s Arena. These scholars represent years of sustained intellectual inquiry, rigorous research, and groundbreaking contributions to knowledge in fields spanning the arts and humanities, the biomedical and health sciences, the physical and mathematical sciences, and the social and behavioral sciences.
On May 16, 2025, we welcomed 1,151 master’s degree recipients to the same stage, celebrating the breadth of their academic pursuits and the promise of their professional futures. These graduates join a thriving community of Rutgers alumni making an impact across New Jersey, the nation, and the world.
From the first day of graduate study through to the moment they crossed the stage, our graduates have demonstrated intellectual courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. At SGS, we are privileged to serve one of the most diverse and accomplished graduate student bodies in the nation. With students from over 125 countries and more than 150 graduate programs across disciplines, we are committed to cultivating an inclusive, supportive, and forward-looking environment that prepares scholars not only to succeed in their chosen fields but also to lead and serve in a complex global society.
This year’s ceremonies reflected that mission in action. They were also a time to honor the graduate faculty and staff who mentor, guide, and advocate for our students, and to celebrate the families, friends, and communities whose support makes graduate success possible.
Dean Mark Robson closed the ceremonies with warmth and humor, sharing reflections from his own five-decade journey at Rutgers. “In 1973, my mom dropped me off at Rutgers, and I’m still waiting for her to come back to get me,” he joked. “It’s been a surprisingly good run: 52 years, four degrees, three jobs, one wife… and many friends.” His remarks encouraged graduates to reflect on their time at Rutgers while reminding them of the enduring value of community, generosity, and humility. “Never overlook the small things you do for someone,” he added. “These will surely pay dividends later in life when you least expect it.”
To all our graduates: your hard work, perseverance, and brilliance inspire us all. We are proud to have been part of your journey and can’t wait to see where you go next.
Please stay in touch and let us know how you're shaping the future.