Christopher Markus, an Emmy-winning screenwriter who co-wrote six films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, encouraged the Class of 2026 to seize opportunities, learn from failures, and at times, plan less.
“When I graduated from college, I had no idea I’d be a screenwriter,” Markus said during the 260th anniversary commencement for Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Rutgers Health. “When I became a screenwriter, I had no idea I’d wind up writing about a guy dressed as an American flag for 10 years, and when that finished, I had no idea what I’d do afterward. And that’s the way I like it.”
“Success often just confirms what you already know. But with failure, you learn,” said Markus, who graduated from Rutgers in 1991. “You refine your ideas and methods. You grow. And growth, be it the deepening of your character or the expansion of your mind, is the whole point. … Life has no final draft. We are always able to revise, to aim forward for something better.”
Students who gathered at SHI Stadium in Piscataway on Sunday celebrated the joy of reaching a moment that once seemed so far away or hard to obtain. They spoke of the challenges they faced in the classroom and the bonds they formed with friends—some who met when starting college and some hometowns friends who grew closer as undergrads.
As the first in her family to graduate from college, Bryanna Rosa, an economics major from the School of Arts and Sciences, said commencement felt particularly special.
“My parents worked so hard for me to be here and to graduate from Rutgers is such an accomplishment,” said Rosa, of Perth Amboy.
Her mother worked until midnight on Saturday as a server at a restaurant and woke up at 7 a.m. to attend the ceremony. She said her parents were texting her from the stands telling her how proud they felt.
“Being here feels so fulfilling,’’ she said.
Jason Hordyk waited in line to ring the iconic Red Lion Bell with two friends from his days at Jefferson Township High School reflecting on how the moment felt different than his graduation four years ago, a milestone that seemed easier to reach.
“It’s four years of putting in a lot of work and getting something out that is helping build my future,’’ said Hordyk, who earned a degree in political science.
“I feel like I got myself somewhere in life,’’ added his friend Ryan Callaghan, who earned a degree in computer science.
During Sunday’s ceremony, President William F. Tate IV bestowed upon Markus an honorary doctor of letters degree. He spoke to graduates about the evolution of colleges and universities in the country and how Rutgers is part of tradition of opening doors for graduates.
“Today, Rutgers stands tall as one of the beacons of opportunity for all and social mobility in higher education,” said Tate in his first Rutgers commencement address.
He noted that it was in 1862 when the federal Morrill Act was enacted—and later expanded in 1890—making it possible for states to establish public colleges across the nation.
“All the graduates today are intellectual offspring of the Morrill Act and its opportunity agenda,” Tate said. “Graduates, your education has prepared you to seek truth, demonstrate empathy, and embody opportunity. Go forth and shine the light of righteousness.”
Gov. Mikie Sherrill, who received an honorary doctor of laws degree, told the class to dream big, stay curious and continue learning.
“You’re more empathetic, thoughtful, and tested than any generation in memory,” Sherrill told the graduates. “You know the promise of America.”
“No matter where your family started, today, with this degree, you are more powerful than ever,” Sherrill said. “You will chart the path forward, not just for New Jersey, but for our great nation.”
“This is one of the biggest, most diverse, most dynamic institutions in all of America. And you fought hard to get here. You worked extra jobs. You studied all night. … You know how to set your sights high. Keep them there.”
Chris Godoy, the outgoing president of the Rutgers University Student Assembly (RUSA), also addressed graduates.
“As I reflect on my Rutgers journey, I have come to appreciate just how much this institution has shaped me and challenged me to grow, navigate life, and recognize the impact we can have together when we lead with purpose,” Godoy said.
Before the ceremony, Jessica Simmons took photos with her family in the stadium, reveling in her achievement.
“I feel super accomplished,’’ said Simmons, who studied exercise science. “Rutgers is not an easy school. The course work is challenging but they shape you into the best. Rutgers sets you up for success. It has a great reputation, and I am really happy I chose to go here.’’
Eric Ibe, who earned a degree in health administration from the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, reflected on how thankful he was to graduate. He said he attended two other schools before finally finding a home at Rutgers.
“I am grateful for what I have, the people around me, the family, the friends, the wins, the losses. I am just grateful,’’ said Ibe of Jackson.
An estimated 18,160 graduates will receive degrees, certificates and diplomas across Rutgers this year (13,631 from Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences; 2,817 from Rutgers University-Newark, and 1,712 from Rutgers University-Camden).
They include approximately 11,550 baccalaureate degrees, 4,594 master’s degrees, 1,958 doctorates (including professional doctorates), and 58 professional certificates. Since its founding in 1766, Rutgers has awarded 728,958 academic degrees (excluding the 2025–2026 estimated total).
The Rutgers University-Camden and Graduate School commencement will be May 19 at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion. Chancellor Antonio Tillis will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony.
Rutgers University–Newark’s commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 21 at the Prudential Center, Newark. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jonathan Capeheart, who co-anchors MS NOW’s The Weekend, will deliver remarks.