Dear Editor:
I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to all of the classes of 2002 and in particular to the graduates of Hoboken High School where I was honored to participate as a keynote speaker last week. The 150 young men and women of the graduating class showed great dignity and grace which made me extremely proud as a past graduate of the school.
Graduations are important rituals, providing a student the opportunity to embark on a new chapter of life. They are an exciting period of new challenges, opportunities and new options.
I have tried to impart to all seniors that success in life is not measured by financial reward, but by leading happy, honorable and good lives. Success is about loyalty to family and friends; about knowing in one’s heart that every effort has been made, on an individual level, to enrich the world.
Hoboken High School is a special place, a melting pot of all ethnic and religious backgrounds. This year’s graduates have a great future before them and I feel assured knowing that they are the next generation of leaders.
I would also like to thank Stevens Institute and Dr. Harold Ravache and Mary Pat Carol for securing Stevens as the host site. Stevens is a great friend of the community and a great partner with your schools.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge a young graduate, Marish Patel, for leading his class in a standing ovation of everyone’s parents.
Good luck to all.
Mayor David Roberts