Bon Jovi urges Monmouth University graduates to "take chances"
The Associated Press WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. (AP) -- Don't be afraid to make some noise, take a chance and get yourself noticed. That's the advice New Jersey native Jon Bon Jovi gave Wednesday to the class of 2001 at Monmouth University in West Long Branch. "I've been to the top and I've been written off more than once, but I'm still here," the 39-year-old rock star told his captive audience. "Nothing is more important as passion. No matter what you do in life, be passionate." Bon Jovi, who was raised in Sayreville and now lives in Middletown, was cheered loudly as he received an honorary doctor of humanities degree. He also shook hands with several graduates as they jumped on stage to greet him and receive their degrees. Bon Jovi's current U.S. tour, in support of their Grammy-nominated album "Crush," is scheduled to close with two sold-out homecoming shows at Giants Stadium on July 27 and 28.
"WEST LONG BRANCH — Jon Bon Jovi, the world-famous rock-and-roll entertainer was the commencement speaker yesterday at Monmouth University. He was selected to receive a Doctor of Humanities degree for giving his time and talent to many charitable causes throughout his career. Dr. Bon Jovi is actively involved in Special Olympics, sitting on the board of directors for the Very Special Christmas music projects. In 1998 Bon Jovi organized Come Together: Jon Bon Jovi & Friends, the Sgt. King benefit concert (raising funds for the family of slain Long Branch police officer Pat King, as well as for organizations helping other families of slain officers). In 1999 Bon Jovi hosted a fundraising gala to benefit the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. In 2001 he was honored as Humanitarian of the Year by the Foodbank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. He has been active in a number of charities all over the world including: Best Buddies, the American Red Cross, AMFAR, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatrics AIDS Foundation, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Jon Bon Jovi told the graduates not to be fearful of new beginnings. He said, "This life is a marathon. Whatever road life leads you down, you can change direction at any time. When I was in my early twenties, I didn't know what tomorrow would bring. Now, starting at forty, I still don't know. And that's what makes life exciting." Bon Jovi said the graduates could expect to find competition from graduates at other schools like Dartmouth, Yale and Georgetown. "Remember, we're from Jersey. We've been the underdogs all our lives. And I can tell you this: it's passion, not pedigree, that can and will win in the end. Free yourself from comparison. Just because someone has fancy sneakers doesn't mean they can run faster." |