May 29, 2024 • 39 mins
The first of our three-part Spring 2024 commencement coverage kicks off with a conversation highlighting President's Award Winner Aislynn Fait and takes you inside the Liberal Arts ceremony with clips featuring President Dr. Michael Cioce and Keynote Speaker Gregg Murphy of the Philadelphia Phillies.
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Episode Transcript
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Jason Varga (00:01):
Welcome to the program pod, a national award
winning program on the RCBCPodcast Network which takes a
deep dive into the programsoffered at rcbc. through
different perspectives ofstudents, faculty and employers,
sometimes things that go downbehind the scenes but we are
here in the votta auditoriumagain for another episode of the
program pod commencement seriescovering the 2024 Spring
(00:24):
Commencement coming up. It isthat time of year it's May but I
mean, depending on when you'relistening to this program,
commencement probably alreadyhappened. But something started
last year getting to speak withthe president award winners and
then the students after theygraduate and you know, share
their experiences, becausethat's what it's all about going
to school and then eventuallygraduating moving on and and
trying to start your career butcontinues rolls on the episodes
(00:47):
with now we have Aislynn, faitaislin, how're you doing again?
Great. Thank you so much forhaving me today. It's great to
be here. Yes. So, you know,bringing you on here, because
you're going to be speaking infront of what commencements this
time, the liberal arts, liberalarts, which are you ready for
it? Are you ready to speak infront of all your classmates, I
(01:08):
am definitely very nervous. Andit still hasn't really set in
that it's like really going tohappen. But I'm also very
excited to be able to speak toeveryone so and have you spoken
in front of a crowd this size,or have a big size before? Well,
I actually had a similarexperience with public speaking
when I attended Camp 2030. Lastyear, that was in front of a few
(01:30):
100 people and commencement. I'msure it's gonna be much larger,
but it is so yeah, just a bit.
Yeah, it's gonna be really,really interesting to the camp
to the camp 2030 have like thebig PA system and such to where
you really just peeking out tothe crowd and hear your voice
echoing throughout. I did nothave that experience. I had a
(01:52):
small microphone. Okay. My teamand I we shuffled out onto the
stage from things like anauditorium as hundreds doing
little hand symbols to likelittle shuffling. For the people
that can see scuttled down onthe
pitch. It was a lot of pressure.We ended up placing first
overall in the entire program.It was really, really
interesting experience. Yeah, Iremember reading about the
story, because Eli, who was ourintern also, as part of your
(02:15):
team, and such, congratulationsto you know, number number one,
and how many, you know,contestants are there are groups
or people, I'm not sure theexact amount of teams that were
taking place. But I believethere were over 150 people at
camp that year. And
Unknown (02:33):
my team was a team of five women from around the
world. It was like, reallyincredible to be able to meet
them and work with them on theproject. So yeah, and be number
one. Yeah, yeah, it wasimportant part. I mean, the
doing what you're doing and whatwas it that you're doing at Camp
2030. So it's a Global SolutionSummit to focus on the United
Nations Sustainable DevelopmentGoals. And they bring together
(02:57):
people, young people from allaround the world who are
interested in change making andcreating change and impact in
the world. And I was able toattend as a delegate from rcbc.
We spent a week in upstate NewYork, and we worked together in
our teams to solve major worldissues. So our team is focused
(03:17):
on responsible production andconsumption. And we created a
solution that tried to focus onremoving food waste from
landfills, and putting ittowards bio plastic facilities.
So that could reduce plasticuse, reduce greenhouse gases
from landfills, and you know,create less waste. So that's
awesome. And I'm one for theenvironment there. And my wife
(03:38):
actually kind of sometimes getsmad of how crazy I'm with
recycling and such to stickreally trying to recycle that
I'm like, yes, yes, trying toleave that carbon footprint. I'm
gonna raise my daughter thatway, too. So again,
congratulations with that. And,you know, you got a little
teaser of speaking in front of abig crowd, but now it's gonna be
a bigger crowd coming up for the15th and liberal arts, which
liberals crowd is always amazingthem how science is nothing. Can
(04:01):
stem STEM is always there justso like focused, you know? Yes.
I could never do Sam like, I amso bad at math.
Jason Varga (04:10):
There's not more options than just math. But I
got yeah, there's so much math.Oh, yeah. There is. I just I'm
awful at it. But yeah, butthey're I have great admiration
for all of the all of thegraduates because they are like
such incredible. Yeah. And it'ssuper smart. And like I said,
dedicated but always focused.You know, me, I'm trying to ramp
them up at commencement,sometimes Nerdist there. I mean,
(04:32):
as soon as the graduation isover, then they let loose,
right? But it's like liberalarts. Sometimes it's a big party
and health science is way bigparty. They're just kind of like
a funky budget. So so I'mexcited for that. But so you're
going to be speaking from thecrowd. But what made you want
to, you know, go apply for thepresident's award winning award
winner, too. You can do thespeech but also Congratulations
(04:53):
for winning. One of thePresident's Award winner spots,
right, so I definitely do
Unknown (05:00):
wanting to apply because I feel that I've had
such an incredible experience atrcbc. And I wanted to be able to
share that with the graduates, Ithink that all of the things
that I've been able toaccomplish has been because I've
been rcbc. And I want to kind ofdedicate the experiences I've
had, like, using this speechand, and share that amazing
(05:25):
experience and like, thank the
Jason Varga (05:29):
school for everything that they've done for
me. And I think by being able tospeak to the graduates, I'll be
able to achieve that. Yeah. AndI think you speaking to your
classmates, too, you never knowwho you're gonna connect with as
well. Or it's gonna be somebodyout there in the crowd. And
again, I'm getting chillstalking about because that's how
passionate I am about. And youknow, I'm so proud of you that
(05:50):
out there in the crowd, it wasjust talking earlier with one of
the other Presidents Awardwinners Taiwo. It's just she was
taken aback by a previousPresidents Award winner speech
and inspired her to dosomething. So maybe you can be
inspiring somebody out there inthe crowd to this kind of like
stepping up, maybe they wereeven thinking about going to
school, and then they hear yourstory, which I'm going to ask
you about in a second. But, youknow, I mean, like, you're about
(06:10):
to connect with a lot of people,and you're about to do some
really good, you know, are youdoing good with Camp 2030. Now,
we're doing even more good here.But but that story you say in
your speeches I got to hear youpractice that through is very
unique. It's very interesting.Can you share that with us, like
how you got here to rcbc andkind of like, you know, what
made you and even getting there,right? So I was homeschooled
until I began at rcbc at age 17.And unfortunately, I did not
(06:35):
have a solid education in myhomeschooling. And that led me
to start at rcbc with a littlebit of a disadvantage compared
to those around me. I definitelystruggled with mental health and
my education before I started atrcbc, because I felt like I
couldn't accomplish anything.And as soon as I did start at
(06:58):
rcbc, I realized how much I canaccomplish when I have the
chance to and when I allowmyself to take those chances.
Unknown (07:09):
So I got into working as a student worker here, I was
able to excel in my academics, Irealized how much I love
learning new things. Maybe notmath, but
I love learning.
I do love
just like being able to helpothers. And I was able to do
(07:31):
that through the work I do withexternal sharing. Especial
learning? Yeah.
Jason Varga (07:38):
Well, it's, it's always seen you're on campus,
and I was saying this Off mic,you know, before we get to sit
down, it was just like, it wasnice to finally meet you because
I saw your vibe and personalityalways across. And I would never
gotten that, you know, you werekind of not homeschool, but just
kind of like not around othersand like the social stuff
because you have like this auraaround you and stuff. But it's
great to see you get here and Iguess rcbc made it, you know,
(08:00):
pretty easy for you to kind oflike transition out of that type
of experience that you hadgrowing up into, you know, this
educational setting you've gotgoing on now. Yeah, yeah. I've
met like incredible people here.All of the staff, the faculty,
the friends that I've made theclassmates and peers that I have
at the school, they're justincredible people and I always I
always try to be like them andembody the kindness and the the
(08:26):
grace that they have given to aparticular professor that I
stood out to you and yourexperience. Oh my God, so many.
Yeah, like my first professor.For the first class. I like ever
had Professor Rowley withhistory.
Unknown (08:39):
I was able to take his class a few times, Professor
bizarre I was able to take hisclass at Christmas. Amazing.
Yeah, he's an amazing professor.Yep.
I mean, Professor abdul-jabbarAmazing, amazing professor. And
I remember
my math professors as well.
(09:00):
Yeah. Yeah. Right on. So what isactually your major? And what
did you actually why did youchoose that particular study? So
I am a liberal arts and sciencemajor. I chose that because I
felt that I did not have a verygood grasp on the basics. And I
didn't really have a solidfoundation on like, overall,
(09:22):
what I needed for my education,and I decided to take that major
because I felt that it providedlike a good overview of
everything that I needed.
I am I'm very interested infashion, and I would be a
fashion major. I could see thatright now.
Jason Varga (09:39):
Yes. Yeah. So I'm looking into fashion in the
future. But I just I can't makeit to the Fit fashion campus.
It's 45 minutes from my house.So yeah, it's tough and it's not
something you can kinda like doin distance learning as well.
It's like you gotta be in there.Cutting everything up as again,
Ty was gonna tell us about stuffbut I totally see you in
fashion. Like I say, thevibrancy that you pull off every
day. You're all
(10:00):
Always rockin somethingdifferent and it's, it's, it's
it's impressive. I love it. Sowhat do you think you're gonna
miss most about this place?
Unknown (10:08):
Oh my god like everything.
Good answer. I love being oncampus.
Jason Varga (10:15):
It's for one like it's beautiful. The weather is
so nice right now like justbeing outside on campus all day
the people at campus, it'salways so lively and vibrant.
Having the opportunity to learnso many different things, I was
able to take Mandarin classes,I'm taking ASL right now women's
literature, astronomy, I've beenable to learn so many
(10:36):
interesting things that I hadn'thad access to learning before.
And I also absolutely adore mywork with like, the career
preparation office right now Iwent at the food pantry for
quite a while before that aswell. Having the opportunity to
help people around me is alsojust like, an incredible
experience. And I'm definitelygoing to continue doing that as
(10:59):
I move forward in my career, butat rcbc I feel like I've been
able to make such an impact andI'm definitely going to miss
being able to continue doingthat couple of things on pack
from that answer right there.Obviously the food pantry
Woodlawn people actually knowabout a great it's a great thing
that we do it here at the schooland I think it's doesn't get
enough praise for it. Becausethere was times you know, people
struggle, especially now wherethe economy is just kind of like
(11:19):
still crazy. All right. And youknow, people can be struggle
with some funds or whatever. Butwe offer like the you know,
everything from like pasta tocereal, and even like hygenic
stuff or whatever. And peopledon't really necessarily know
about it. But we do have thefood pantry. It's right behind
voter Hall. Anyone can haveaccess to it, employers,
students, whatever, you needhelp and stuff. And there's no
(11:40):
shame in it either. You know,it's just you get up there I go
and get some stuff. Sometimesthey have an abundance of it. So
it's like that black toothpasteI'm really hooked on right now.
That's the library what's calledcharcoal. Right? Yeah, yeah, I
forget what it's called. Butkind of looks funky when you're
brushing your teeth. But, butstill, it's a great thing with
that, but also to unpack. So yousay math is hard. But here you
(12:01):
are learning Mandarin.
Unknown (12:03):
I love learning languages. And I decided that
for the first language I'm gonnalearn I was going to learn a
really, really hard one. Yeah.So that all the other ones were
so much easier. And I think Iunderestimated how hard Mandarin
is. Friday was still really,really fun class to take. And
Jason Varga (12:22):
I it so difficult. Yeah, oh my gosh, I can only
imagine because I took I mean, Itook French in high school
thinking I'd be a littledifferent trying to learn to,
you know, the language of love.And then I was like, Oh, my God,
this class is very difficult,you know, and I do kind of
struggle to get by when Iprobably should have just taken
Spanish because it's more forme, you know, especially because
I was playing soccer at the timeand had a lot of Spanish
(12:43):
speaking players. And I couldhave had a little bit more of an
upper hand. Because if you'respeaking in a different
language, then the other teammight not know exactly what
you're saying, or how you'retrying to like, you know,
communicate on the field. But ofcourse, it's just kind of out
there. But French is still Ithink, way down. And then
Mandarin is like way up here.You know? Alright, so you're
obviously those are some of thememories and who's gonna take
(13:03):
with you. So where is your nextstep? So where are you headed
now. So I'm going to work for alittle bit. And then I'm going
to continue and get mybachelor's, I'm going to do some
research on what is best for me.I'm looking into a few different
schools right now on theirfashion programs and seeing what
my options are for that I wantto go into fashion marketing. So
(13:24):
I'm hoping next year to start mymy next query, okay, well, I
want to get you ready for thereal world. So we're gonna get
out of these kinds of these bioquestions. And you know, who is
a salon? So
we are now going to get you forthese tough demanding questions.
All right. And because I heardyou talking about the speech,
you were going to maybe try towork in a song quote, you're
(13:47):
saying I'm a big music person,as I told you Off mic, huge,
huge concert person I pricey andover 1500 concerts in my life
and travel around the world andgo and see bands and such. So
music is a big passion for me.So I always like to ask people,
if you could choose one song toplay every time you walked into
a room, what would you choose?And why? Well, that's an
interesting question. I have noidea. That's okay. So what did
(14:12):
you were you when you weretalking about you might want to
work? You had an artist you saidin the speech that you that kind
of inspired you. Maybe itdoesn't have to reflect you, but
you want to work it into thespeech. What were you were we
thinking at the time? Well, Ilove Mitski I was able to see
her a few months back, but hermusic is very, very sad. And I
do love sad music. But if Ievery time I've walked into the
(14:35):
room of very sad
people would get very sad aroundme, so I got to be something
uplifting. Okay. We've alwayscome back to that. But where do
you see miss kia? I saw her atthe Fillmore in Philly. Love
that venue. It's gorgeous.venue. It's one of my favorites.
Have you been to the met yet?Actually, wait, no. I saw her at
the mat. Okay, so it's evenbetter venue. I mean, it was
(14:57):
gorgeous. There. Okay. Yeah, ithas like that. Oh,
like Philadelphia, it's the oldPhiladelphia Opera House. They
rebuilt it and renovated into amodern time. So it's crazy good
there. But like I said, I couldtalk music with you all day
every day. But peek inside you alittle bit more. Because
sometimes, you know, these theseprofessional interviews they
don't like to ask you about yourresume and your background, your
(15:17):
camp 2030 are, you know, if youknow Mandarin, right, but they
want to know, some off the wallstuff, the kind of stuff you
from the other candidates? Whatdo you think about when you're
alone in your car? Well, I can'tdrive because I'm terrified of
cars. But when you're in a caror bus or whatever,
Unknown (15:35):
I do love playing music. I just like sit with my
thoughts and like stare at thewindow. That's sad. Magnitsky
music. Maybe, no. Um,
I don't know, I think I thinkabout the weather, which is
very, very boring. But I like tolook around. I love poetry as
(15:59):
well. So I like to look aroundme and I like to look at all of
the things around me. And maybethat's how right now it's
springtime. And there's like allthese gorgeous blooming trees
out and I get to appreciate thatI get to look at the world
around me and like, think like,wow, there's flowers and
grandmas. That's gorgeous.There's like some people over
there talking they look so happylike just appreciating the world
(16:22):
around me and definitely likebeing a spectator and taking
that moment to step back andlike just like process
everything just appreciate life.Yeah, I think definitely
Jason Varga (16:33):
having the ability to appreciate where I'm at is
like such a valuable thing. It'sgood perspective to have ya
know, and I wish we had a littlebit longer spring as it seems
like we go from winter to summerand then a little bit of spring.
It's like crazy weather. It'sbeen insane. Yeah, it's
gorgeous. Right now it's gonnabe gorgeous for commencement.
But you know, I'm, I've beenI've a crazy Canna lily
addiction lately, it's been kindof which my wife hates, because
(16:55):
how tall they get and stuff. SoI'm kind of thinning them out
and trying to do this wholebackdrop on my fence. I'm trying
to build this whole tropicalvibe in the backyard as low
scape because the same thinglike just kind of sit out there
in the back deck, have a cup ofcoffee, you know, now I got my
daughter and I'm trying toeventually get her to like, you
know, understanding bulbs, whichshe doesn't she just throws dirt
everywhere. Puts rocks in hermouth, but you know, we'll get
we'll get we'll get there. Butyes, and let's find our
(17:18):
appreciation for because it'slike, I don't know, it's
something about like you saidwatching it grow but just kind
of like the work you kind ofputting into it and sowing the
seeds a little bit right andjust kind of seeing the fruits
of your labor and all theseother cliches that you have
going on. But
alright, so another veryimportant question. What would
your slogan be if you were abrand?
(17:39):
Okay, heavy thoughts on theprogram pod. I just just serious
question
Janie's on
Unknown (17:49):
I think
it is what it is. It is what itis a bit basic as well. But I
think sometimes people can getvery upset about things people
can like,
end up in a situation where theyfeel really like negative bowel
situation, like, you kind ofjust kind of let it go, you
(18:10):
know, and you gotta let it justlike radical acceptance, just
like it is what it is, like iswhat it is. It's a nice, easy
phrase. I like that.
Jason Varga (18:19):
All right, the most important question before we
wrap things up here. How wouldyou rate me as an interviewer?
Well, I've never beeninterviewed before, but I'd say
10 out of 1010 out of 10. Allright, moving up in a world I
love. Thank you.
Alright, so is there anythingyou know, we want you want to
say to your fellow classmates, Iknow you kind of had a little
bit in your in your speech,which I'm going to pull up your
(18:40):
speech to from the YouTubebecause we are going to be
streaming it live. You know, itwill be on YouTube and go back
and watch it over and over andover share with whoever but for
the audio podcast, I do liketake a little bit of a clip and
say like, Hey, listeners, checkout what No, she got to say. But
any advice any less other thingsyou want to say to your fellow
2024 Spring graduates. I mean,it's just been incredible to
(19:02):
take this journey with you allhave been able to meet so many
incredible people at rcbc I cannever stop saying that. Because
I honestly I would not be myselfwithout the people around me.
And having the opportunity tomeet everyone to go to classes
with everyone to engage witheveryone. It has been just an
(19:25):
honor to be here so it's anhonor finally actually get to
meet you as well. Personally,I've seen you all on campus your
one definitely stands out. Andcongrats again for being the
President's Award winner gettingready to speak in front of the
liberal arts students you'regonna you're gonna crush it I
know it is you're gonna do greatthings. When you get out of here
and stuff and we'll still behere you can come explore the
(19:45):
campus and you can see all theother flowers and stuff growing
up and they're building on butIslam thanks for coming on the
show. And you know, anybody wantto shut up or say goodbye? or
anything?
Unknown (19:57):
Thank you Harlow, my sister
Jason Varga (20:00):
There we go. And to all my friends as well, thank
you guys, my parents as well.Okay, there it is. And Erica
Franklin. Thank you, Erica.She's awesome. I've worked for
her for my entire career as a coworker, she's like, absolutely
incredible person. She's greatto learn from. And she's, she's
one of the exceptional peoplehere at OCBC a lot of
exceptional people, but which Ithink this community is great
(20:20):
because we, you know, you cansee how much she cares about
people like yourself and thestudents. And that's what it's
all about. It's all about seeingthe success, you know, grow from
when you get here to thiscommencement and, and beyond,
right and looking back, and it'sjust kind of like, it's like
almost a proud parent typemoment. Right. So Eric is great
person. So I'm glad you broughther up. But again, thanks for
coming on the show. And I lookforward to seeing you do it
(20:42):
live. Thank you so much forhaving me. Take care, take care.
And there she goes a Zlin fatewho indeed went on to crush it
during her speech at the liberalarts commencement, which we're
about to hear a few pieces ofaudio from next, but it was a
wild week leading up tograduation as the weather wasn't
really cooperating, pushing backthe ceremony a day for Wednesday
to Thursday. But eventually,everything all started to line
(21:04):
up perfectly for the rcbcgraduates who are ready to get
the party started. So let'scheck out a few moments from
liberal arts ceremony, whichincludes a crowded introduction
from President COC who alsoshares the news about a new name
for the liberal arts division, aclip from a Zealands president's
award speech to her classmatesand a powerful and inspirational
message from a special keynotespeaker tied to the Philadelphia
(21:26):
Phillies, Greg Murphy. Let'scheck it out. Good morning. My
name is Mike COC and I have thedistinct pleasure of being the
president here at Rowan College,Burlington County and I would
like to welcome everyone in thecrowd, Darcy BCS spring
graduation ceremony. I'm so gladthat you could join us to
celebrate the success of thesegood looking students. Our
(21:46):
campus never looks better thanthis time of year when it's
filled with our inspirationalgraduates. They're proud and
supportive friends and familiesand those of us who are
privileged to work with all ofthem. This morning ceremony
celebrates students in majorsfrom the liberal arts division,
which this summer will beundergoing a name change to the
humanities, Business and SocialSciences Division. Before we
(22:08):
begin, I would like to take amoment to thank my mother she
has given me so much startingwith both my life and my name.
President Cioce (22:16):
So I would like to acknowledge all the other
Michaels in the audience today.Are there any mics in the
audience?
If there are please stand withme for a moment of recognition.
None are y'all Logan's and DECLinds. And
anyway. All right. Well, thatwas our Mic check. So all the
(22:37):
mics can now be seated with thenon mics. If you know the amount
of dad jokes that are on thecutting room floor that involved
the word Riz slay.
My 10 year old told me I was tooold to use those words and then
responded with what the sigma
(22:58):
but the mic joke serves as amessage to our graduates as they
prepare for their new career ortheir next University. Next up,
we're going to hear from onevery impressive bearing as a
homeschooled student aislin fatehad never attended school before
joining the rcbc community. Shedove into every opportunity she
could to learn as much aspossible and emerge from those
(23:20):
waters determined to give backto fellow barons.
A son finished with a 3.8 GPAwhile exploring topics such as
Chinese and astronomy. She hasserved this community in the
food pantry, she's traveled toNew York with a delegation of
young leaders to collaborate onsolutions to global problems.
It's no surprise that ASINs teamwon that global competition.
(23:44):
After you hear her story, I'msure that you're going to agree
it will not be the last timethat she will be standing on a
grand stage as a winner. Pleasewelcome 2024 liberal arts
President's Award winner aislinFate
Unknown (24:02):
Hello, everyone.
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemedfaculty, those who come to
support and of course my fellowgraduates of 2024. It is an
honor to be here today to sharethis incredible journey with you
all. I'd like to start bycongratulating the class of
2024.
(24:24):
You have all overcomeconsiderable obstacles to reach
our goals and be here. Today isa day of celebration, reflection
and gratitude. As we gather hereto mark the culmination of our
academic journeys at rcbc I amdeeply honored to share my story
with you. My experience witheducation is very unique. I was
homeschooled my entire lifeuntil college, but
(24:45):
unfortunately, I did not haveaccess to the resources I
needed, nor was I a part of anyhomeschooling programs. I had a
very isolated childhood with mysister being the only consistent
interaction I had with otherchildren my age, this deep
really affected my ability tolearn and develop social skills.
Because my family was unable toprovide the support I needed due
(25:06):
to the financial struggles andhealth problems. I struggled
with my own mental health andentered a time in my life where
became so depressed that Istruggled to feel emotions at
age 11. For the next six years,I would enter a very difficult
period in my life, where I feltpowerless and incapable of
achieving my goals. I began toidolize college as time when my
(25:26):
life would really began, whenI'd be able to start working,
make friends and receive aneducation. I remember telling
myself that I just needed tomake it to college view in
college as the light at the endof the tunnel.
Growing up, I was told I'd begincollege at age 16. And as I got
closer to this age, I felt likecollege was becoming closer. And
(25:49):
that light, light was becomingbrighter. And suddenly, when I
became 16, COVID happened,everything shut down. And the
hope I had faded away and I wasagain sent into a dark place in
my life. Despite how I struggledduring that time, I pushed
through the darkness of thattunnel, hoping the light at the
end would be worth it.
Then in 2021, at 17 years old, Ibegan at rcbc. I had never been
(26:13):
inside a classroom before andhad interacted with many people,
my age graduates, the fact thatyou are here today is proof that
you have overcome difficultobstacles. Maybe you have
already made it through thattunnel. Maybe graduation is the
light for you. Or maybe yourlight is still yet to come. But
in some way you've endured it isby taking the opportunities
(26:34):
available to us where we giveour tails chances to grow.
Every chance you have to trysomething new is a chance to
become a better person.
I encourage you to seize everyopportunity that comes your way.
Because every opportunity youtake to appreciate what you have
or might have might become yourreason to continue through that
tunnel. And when you can try totake a moment to share that
(26:57):
light with others. Give back tothe people who have supported
you and do your best to liftothers up every chance you get.
Say hi to the people see you sitnext to hold the door for
someone give a stranger acompliment. We improve ourselves
by uplifting those around us.I'd like to extend my gratitude
to everyone who has supported usthrough this journey at rcbc.
(27:18):
And to the incredible staff andfaculty that work tirelessly to
improve the lives of studentshere. Thank you for all that you
do.
And graduates, as you journeyahead with life, know this, you
have struggled, you haveendured, and you have come out
(27:39):
on top as an accomplishedindividual. I know that because
you have made it here today. Nomatter how hard it can be, or
how long you endure. You willfind that light at the end of
the tunnel. Class of 2024 Wemade it.
President Cioce (27:56):
Congratulations and thank you. Awesome. I think
one of the biggest bummers ofaislin graduating is that I'm
not gonna see her in the SSCbecause she was a fixture. I
think I thought she like movedin. Because she was there. And
then so when people will say oh,it's too loud in the SSC. I'm
like student building, they'reallowed to make as much noise as
(28:17):
they want. So nice job. Aislinnreally hit that one out of the
park. On our next speaking ofhitting one out of the park, our
next speaker knows how to callit when someone really hits one
out of the park Philliesbroadcaster Greg Murphy, as a
broadcaster and an on fieldreporter Greg Murphy has been in
our homes through television andradio bringing us closer to the
(28:38):
action of the fight andPhillies. Some huge sporting
events such as the NCAAtournament, the Super Bowl, the
NBA Finals, and the WorldSeries. Maybe again this year.
Murph, as viewers know him andpeople were like screaming his
name out as we were walking up,grew up in Mount Laurel and
graduated from Holycross highschool before attending St.
(28:58):
Joe's University.
Personally as a Phillies fan,I've always felt like Greg was a
neighbor. Before I found out heliterally was a neighbor having
grown up here.
Off the field. He earned theLeukemia and Lymphoma Society
visionary of the Year award in2023, given to individuals
leading in the fight againstblood cancer, a fight that Murph
(29:18):
himself courageously survived.So besides calling names for the
best baseball team on theplanet, he's part of our
community, and has demonstratedthe grit and generosity of a
baron, which is why I'm honoredto invite Greg to share his
story with class of 2024 astoday's keynote speaker. Well,
good morning, andcongratulations, rcbc graduates,
(29:40):
you're looking good. Despite therain yesterday, it looks like we
still almost have a sellout,which is what we like in the
world of baseball. Before Istart my comments, let me just
say aislin Wow, what a greatrepresentation for this class of
2024 having another round ofapplause for aislin
Unknown (29:59):
Rad
Let me start by saying thank youto President COC, the board of
trustees, the faculty and staff,and the rcbc graduates and your
families who are here today.Thank you so much for inviting
me here on campus. It's anabsolute pleasure to be here
with you today and an honor tobe standing in front of you. As
(30:21):
President COC just mentioned, Iliterally grew up about a mile
and a half from this campus. Itwas a wonderful time in my life,
I grew up with a father who wasa school teacher, a mother who
was a legal secretary, we didn'thave a whole lot. But they both
worked tirelessly to make suremy brother sister and I had
everything that we could need orwant. For my part through
(30:43):
elementary school and highschool. I did just what I needed
to get by. I love sports,obviously. I love socializing
with my friends. I was smart,but I certainly wasn't the
smartest. I was athletic. But Icertainly wasn't the most
athletic.
But hard work, diligent in mystudies, working up to my
(31:06):
potential, not really my thing.
It wasn't until I got to collegethat I realized, if I wanted to
be successful,
if I wanted to think about afuture beyond just tomorrow, I
needed to figure out what mydreams for my future were. And I
needed to change the way I wasdoing things. Luckily for me,
(31:27):
the beginning of that changehappened in my first semester,
in college, I had entered St.Joseph's University, with the
idea that I was going to go tolaw school afterwards and be an
attorney. I kind of picturedmyself as one of those TV
attorneys that was pacing backand forth in front of the jury
box, making a point and thenwhipping around and catching the
(31:48):
witness in a lie and turning thetrial upside down on its head. I
watched a lot of TV back then.
But one night, my freshman yeara good friend of mine asked if I
would go with him to a meetingon campus for a brand new radio
station that was starting at St.Joe's. he fancied himself a
music DJ. I didn't really haveany interest in going but I
(32:10):
didn't have anything better todo either. So I decided to tag
along. When we got to the room,there was about 40 or 50 people
there. And the speaker at thefront of the room was talking
about different opportunities.And he asked the room is anyone
interested in being the play byplay guy for the men's and
women's basketball team here atSt. Joe's?
(32:30):
I looked around and most of thefolks were like my buddy very
much into music, not so muchinto sports and nobody raised
their hand.
So I thought to myself, well,that sounds kind of cool. So I
did raise my hand. And before Iknew it, I was sitting in
Philadelphia's famed Polestarcalling my first college
(32:50):
basketball game, St. Joe'sversus Drexel.
And it was that moment that Idiscovered that was the dream I
was meant to follow. By raisingmy hand on impulse by taking a
chance. I arrived at the momentwhen I realized broadcasting was
the career path that I wanted tochoose.
(33:13):
I tell you that story. Because Iwant you to understand that you
never know when a new dream willstart. You never know when a new
door will open. That's the waylife works. So you have to be
ready.
You have to be open to the ideathat your life today will be
different than your life fiveyears from now. 10 years from
(33:34):
now. 30 years from now.
You have to believe andunderstand that the associate's
degree that you will be awardedtoday is a key to new or enrich
dreams. You have to be willingto listen to the universe and
know when a new opportunity ispresenting itself to you. And
(33:54):
then you have to be brave enoughto embrace that new opportunity
and see where it takes you.
So I challenge you as you moveon in your life with your new
degree in hand. Put yourself ona path to figure out what
excites you. What gets yourheart beating? What puts those
butterflies in your stomach.
(34:17):
Dr. Xu Varma the author of abook called practical optimism,
said this. Trust that when youfind that special surge of
energy, that glow of soulsatisfaction,
you'll know it. There's no otherfeeling like it.
Dr. Varma encourages all of usto tune into what our minds and
(34:37):
hearts are telling us and whenyou feel it and when you find
it. Don't be afraid of it.
Some of you may have alreadyfound it. Some of you might
still be looking and that'sokay. I found mine in that musty
meeting room at the Campionstudent center back in October
of 1989. And I didn't even knowI was looking
(34:59):
today
each one of you has taken thatfirst step towards that special
surge of energy. That step beingeducation. The education you
ever received here at rcbc, willinevitably open doors and clear
paths to places andopportunities that you may never
have dreamed of. Now it's up toyou to take that step forward,
(35:23):
get out of your comfort zone,and accept the challenges that
only education can present. For30 years, I've made a living
covering sports watching themost gifted athletes on the
planet do their thing. For thelast 12 years, baseball has been
the center of my professionallife. And I think baseball is a
perfect metaphor for what wehave here today. And what is
(35:46):
ahead for you the graduates of2024.
Baseball is hard. Baseball is agame of failure.
Nobody in the game of baseballsucceeds 100% of the time. In
fact, nobody succeeds. 50% ofthe time,
a baseball player who gets a hitthree out of every time 10 times
(36:07):
is considered an all star,anything more than that, and you
are a bonafide Hall of Famer.
In other words, even the goodplayers fail 70% of the time.
Welcome to the real world,because it'll be no different
for most of us. But it's thosepeople and those players that
learn with each failure, thatare ultimately the ones that we
(36:31):
remember. So don't be afraid offailure, embrace failure, and
learn from the things that keepyou from success today. So that
tomorrow, you can succeed.
No matter what your step is,your education does not end
today, it shifts it changes, butit never ends. In baseball, it's
(36:52):
three strikes and you're out.But in life, that's not the
case. If it were most of us uphere on stage would be down and
out a long time ago. No lifewill throw you your share of
curveballs, that's for sure. Andyou will swing and miss. But the
beauty of life in baseball isthere's always another inning to
play. Always another gametomorrow. And always another
(37:15):
goal to achieve. So to that end,go out, experience, live, learn
more, and succeed. And rememberthat we are all just blessed to
be in the game, and having achance to play ball. I wish all
of you all the success that thisworld has to offer.
Congratulations, class of 2024and go Phil's.
President Cioce (37:41):
Before we conclude,
join me in applauding thefaculty and staff who have
worked tirelessly to prepare thenext generation of leaders.
All of the family and friends inthe audience who have supported
our graduates every step oftheir long journey
(38:06):
you have an air horn now's thetime to drain it.
Unknown (38:10):
And ramp ramp ramp ramp.
President Cioce (38:17):
And of course one final round of applause for
the graduates congratulations onyour accomplishments.
Jason Varga (38:28):
Guests, please remain standing while our
platform guests exit and leadthe faculty staff and graduates
out of the quad. Congratulationsclass of 2024 Wow. I mean, who
else got chills up and downtheir spines are made throughout
their body or whatever. I know Idid. And it was pretty awesome
to have Greg Murphy of thePhiladelphia Phillies right
there doing the speech for theliberal arts crowd there but
(38:50):
also pretty timely, since thePhillies are the best team in
baseball, at least at the timeof this recording. And hopefully
they're going to keep it up allsummer long and maybe, maybe
bring back another World Seriesto Philadelphia. But anyway,
that's gonna do it for part oneof our three parts spring 2024
rcbc commencement coverage hereon the program pod coming up. In
part two, we'll hear fromPresident's Award winner Taiwo
(39:12):
RJ Conley and the other specialguests keynote speaker, New
Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. Fornow, if you want to watch the
full speeches and full liberalarts commencement presentation,
it's available at our cvcsYouTube page and be sure to
check out our Facebook andInstagram channels for pictures
of the ceremony because whoknows, maybe you're in one of
those pictures. Also, if youwant to know more about the
(39:32):
liberal arts programs, soon tobe called humanities, Business
and Social Sciences Divisionoffered at rcbc. Check out
rcbc.edu or of course subscribeto this podcast right here the
program pod wherever you getyour podcasts for deeper dives
into these types of programs.Through the perspectives of
students, faculty and employers.This is Jay Varga signing off
and congrats once again to theclass of 2024 Go Phil's
Welcome to the program pod, a national award
winning program on the RCBCPodcast Network which takes a
deep dive into the programsoffered at rcbc. through
different perspectives ofstudents, faculty and employers,
sometimes things that go downbehind the scenes but we are
here in the votta auditoriumagain for another episode of the
program pod commencement seriescovering the 2024 Spring
(00:24):
Commencement coming up. It isthat time of year it's May but I
mean, depending on when you'relistening to this program,
commencement probably alreadyhappened. But something started
last year getting to speak withthe president award winners and
then the students after theygraduate and you know, share
their experiences, becausethat's what it's all about going
to school and then eventuallygraduating moving on and and
trying to start your career butcontinues rolls on the episodes
(00:47):
with now we have Aislynn, faitaislin, how're you doing again?
Great. Thank you so much forhaving me today. It's great to
be here. Yes. So, you know,bringing you on here, because
you're going to be speaking infront of what commencements this
time, the liberal arts, liberalarts, which are you ready for
it? Are you ready to speak infront of all your classmates, I
(01:08):
am definitely very nervous. Andit still hasn't really set in
that it's like really going tohappen. But I'm also very
excited to be able to speak toeveryone so and have you spoken
in front of a crowd this size,or have a big size before? Well,
I actually had a similarexperience with public speaking
when I attended Camp 2030. Lastyear, that was in front of a few
(01:30):
100 people and commencement. I'msure it's gonna be much larger,
but it is so yeah, just a bit.
Yeah, it's gonna be really,really interesting to the camp
to the camp 2030 have like thebig PA system and such to where
you really just peeking out tothe crowd and hear your voice
echoing throughout. I did nothave that experience. I had a
(01:52):
small microphone. Okay. My teamand I we shuffled out onto the
stage from things like anauditorium as hundreds doing
little hand symbols to likelittle shuffling. For the people
that can see scuttled down onthe
pitch. It was a lot of pressure.We ended up placing first
overall in the entire program.It was really, really
interesting experience. Yeah, Iremember reading about the
story, because Eli, who was ourintern also, as part of your
(02:15):
team, and such, congratulationsto you know, number number one,
and how many, you know,contestants are there are groups
or people, I'm not sure theexact amount of teams that were
taking place. But I believethere were over 150 people at
camp that year. And
Unknown (02:33):
my team was a team of five women from around the
world. It was like, reallyincredible to be able to meet
them and work with them on theproject. So yeah, and be number
one. Yeah, yeah, it wasimportant part. I mean, the
doing what you're doing and whatwas it that you're doing at Camp
2030. So it's a Global SolutionSummit to focus on the United
Nations Sustainable DevelopmentGoals. And they bring together
(02:57):
people, young people from allaround the world who are
interested in change making andcreating change and impact in
the world. And I was able toattend as a delegate from rcbc.
We spent a week in upstate NewYork, and we worked together in
our teams to solve major worldissues. So our team is focused
(03:17):
on responsible production andconsumption. And we created a
solution that tried to focus onremoving food waste from
landfills, and putting ittowards bio plastic facilities.
So that could reduce plasticuse, reduce greenhouse gases
from landfills, and you know,create less waste. So that's
awesome. And I'm one for theenvironment there. And my wife
(03:38):
actually kind of sometimes getsmad of how crazy I'm with
recycling and such to stickreally trying to recycle that
I'm like, yes, yes, trying toleave that carbon footprint. I'm
gonna raise my daughter thatway, too. So again,
congratulations with that. And,you know, you got a little
teaser of speaking in front of abig crowd, but now it's gonna be
a bigger crowd coming up for the15th and liberal arts, which
liberals crowd is always amazingthem how science is nothing. Can
(04:01):
stem STEM is always there justso like focused, you know? Yes.
I could never do Sam like, I amso bad at math.
Jason Varga (04:10):
There's not more options than just math. But I
got yeah, there's so much math.Oh, yeah. There is. I just I'm
awful at it. But yeah, butthey're I have great admiration
for all of the all of thegraduates because they are like
such incredible. Yeah. And it'ssuper smart. And like I said,
dedicated but always focused.You know, me, I'm trying to ramp
them up at commencement,sometimes Nerdist there. I mean,
(04:32):
as soon as the graduation isover, then they let loose,
right? But it's like liberalarts. Sometimes it's a big party
and health science is way bigparty. They're just kind of like
a funky budget. So so I'mexcited for that. But so you're
going to be speaking from thecrowd. But what made you want
to, you know, go apply for thepresident's award winning award
winner, too. You can do thespeech but also Congratulations
(04:53):
for winning. One of thePresident's Award winner spots,
right, so I definitely do
Unknown (05:00):
wanting to apply because I feel that I've had
such an incredible experience atrcbc. And I wanted to be able to
share that with the graduates, Ithink that all of the things
that I've been able toaccomplish has been because I've
been rcbc. And I want to kind ofdedicate the experiences I've
had, like, using this speechand, and share that amazing
(05:25):
experience and like, thank the
Jason Varga (05:29):
school for everything that they've done for
me. And I think by being able tospeak to the graduates, I'll be
able to achieve that. Yeah. AndI think you speaking to your
classmates, too, you never knowwho you're gonna connect with as
well. Or it's gonna be somebodyout there in the crowd. And
again, I'm getting chillstalking about because that's how
passionate I am about. And youknow, I'm so proud of you that
(05:50):
out there in the crowd, it wasjust talking earlier with one of
the other Presidents Awardwinners Taiwo. It's just she was
taken aback by a previousPresidents Award winner speech
and inspired her to dosomething. So maybe you can be
inspiring somebody out there inthe crowd to this kind of like
stepping up, maybe they wereeven thinking about going to
school, and then they hear yourstory, which I'm going to ask
you about in a second. But, youknow, I mean, like, you're about
(06:10):
to connect with a lot of people,and you're about to do some
really good, you know, are youdoing good with Camp 2030. Now,
we're doing even more good here.But but that story you say in
your speeches I got to hear youpractice that through is very
unique. It's very interesting.Can you share that with us, like
how you got here to rcbc andkind of like, you know, what
made you and even getting there,right? So I was homeschooled
until I began at rcbc at age 17.And unfortunately, I did not
(06:35):
have a solid education in myhomeschooling. And that led me
to start at rcbc with a littlebit of a disadvantage compared
to those around me. I definitelystruggled with mental health and
my education before I started atrcbc, because I felt like I
couldn't accomplish anything.And as soon as I did start at
(06:58):
rcbc, I realized how much I canaccomplish when I have the
chance to and when I allowmyself to take those chances.
Unknown (07:09):
So I got into working as a student worker here, I was
able to excel in my academics, Irealized how much I love
learning new things. Maybe notmath, but
I love learning.
I do love
just like being able to helpothers. And I was able to do
(07:31):
that through the work I do withexternal sharing. Especial
learning? Yeah.
Jason Varga (07:38):
Well, it's, it's always seen you're on campus,
and I was saying this Off mic,you know, before we get to sit
down, it was just like, it wasnice to finally meet you because
I saw your vibe and personalityalways across. And I would never
gotten that, you know, you werekind of not homeschool, but just
kind of like not around othersand like the social stuff
because you have like this auraaround you and stuff. But it's
great to see you get here and Iguess rcbc made it, you know,
(08:00):
pretty easy for you to kind oflike transition out of that type
of experience that you hadgrowing up into, you know, this
educational setting you've gotgoing on now. Yeah, yeah. I've
met like incredible people here.All of the staff, the faculty,
the friends that I've made theclassmates and peers that I have
at the school, they're justincredible people and I always I
always try to be like them andembody the kindness and the the
(08:26):
grace that they have given to aparticular professor that I
stood out to you and yourexperience. Oh my God, so many.
Yeah, like my first professor.For the first class. I like ever
had Professor Rowley withhistory.
Unknown (08:39):
I was able to take his class a few times, Professor
bizarre I was able to take hisclass at Christmas. Amazing.
Yeah, he's an amazing professor.Yep.
I mean, Professor abdul-jabbarAmazing, amazing professor. And
I remember
my math professors as well.
(09:00):
Yeah. Yeah. Right on. So what isactually your major? And what
did you actually why did youchoose that particular study? So
I am a liberal arts and sciencemajor. I chose that because I
felt that I did not have a verygood grasp on the basics. And I
didn't really have a solidfoundation on like, overall,
(09:22):
what I needed for my education,and I decided to take that major
because I felt that it providedlike a good overview of
everything that I needed.
I am I'm very interested infashion, and I would be a
fashion major. I could see thatright now.
Jason Varga (09:39):
Yes. Yeah. So I'm looking into fashion in the
future. But I just I can't makeit to the Fit fashion campus.
It's 45 minutes from my house.So yeah, it's tough and it's not
something you can kinda like doin distance learning as well.
It's like you gotta be in there.Cutting everything up as again,
Ty was gonna tell us about stuffbut I totally see you in
fashion. Like I say, thevibrancy that you pull off every
day. You're all
(10:00):
Always rockin somethingdifferent and it's, it's, it's
it's impressive. I love it. Sowhat do you think you're gonna
miss most about this place?
Unknown (10:08):
Oh my god like everything.
Good answer. I love being oncampus.
Jason Varga (10:15):
It's for one like it's beautiful. The weather is
so nice right now like justbeing outside on campus all day
the people at campus, it'salways so lively and vibrant.
Having the opportunity to learnso many different things, I was
able to take Mandarin classes,I'm taking ASL right now women's
literature, astronomy, I've beenable to learn so many
(10:36):
interesting things that I hadn'thad access to learning before.
And I also absolutely adore mywork with like, the career
preparation office right now Iwent at the food pantry for
quite a while before that aswell. Having the opportunity to
help people around me is alsojust like, an incredible
experience. And I'm definitelygoing to continue doing that as
(10:59):
I move forward in my career, butat rcbc I feel like I've been
able to make such an impact andI'm definitely going to miss
being able to continue doingthat couple of things on pack
from that answer right there.Obviously the food pantry
Woodlawn people actually knowabout a great it's a great thing
that we do it here at the schooland I think it's doesn't get
enough praise for it. Becausethere was times you know, people
struggle, especially now wherethe economy is just kind of like
(11:19):
still crazy. All right. And youknow, people can be struggle
with some funds or whatever. Butwe offer like the you know,
everything from like pasta tocereal, and even like hygenic
stuff or whatever. And peopledon't really necessarily know
about it. But we do have thefood pantry. It's right behind
voter Hall. Anyone can haveaccess to it, employers,
students, whatever, you needhelp and stuff. And there's no
(11:40):
shame in it either. You know,it's just you get up there I go
and get some stuff. Sometimesthey have an abundance of it. So
it's like that black toothpasteI'm really hooked on right now.
That's the library what's calledcharcoal. Right? Yeah, yeah, I
forget what it's called. Butkind of looks funky when you're
brushing your teeth. But, butstill, it's a great thing with
that, but also to unpack. So yousay math is hard. But here you
(12:01):
are learning Mandarin.
Unknown (12:03):
I love learning languages. And I decided that
for the first language I'm gonnalearn I was going to learn a
really, really hard one. Yeah.So that all the other ones were
so much easier. And I think Iunderestimated how hard Mandarin
is. Friday was still really,really fun class to take. And
Jason Varga (12:22):
I it so difficult. Yeah, oh my gosh, I can only
imagine because I took I mean, Itook French in high school
thinking I'd be a littledifferent trying to learn to,
you know, the language of love.And then I was like, Oh, my God,
this class is very difficult,you know, and I do kind of
struggle to get by when Iprobably should have just taken
Spanish because it's more forme, you know, especially because
I was playing soccer at the timeand had a lot of Spanish
(12:43):
speaking players. And I couldhave had a little bit more of an
upper hand. Because if you'respeaking in a different
language, then the other teammight not know exactly what
you're saying, or how you'retrying to like, you know,
communicate on the field. But ofcourse, it's just kind of out
there. But French is still Ithink, way down. And then
Mandarin is like way up here.You know? Alright, so you're
obviously those are some of thememories and who's gonna take
(13:03):
with you. So where is your nextstep? So where are you headed
now. So I'm going to work for alittle bit. And then I'm going
to continue and get mybachelor's, I'm going to do some
research on what is best for me.I'm looking into a few different
schools right now on theirfashion programs and seeing what
my options are for that I wantto go into fashion marketing. So
(13:24):
I'm hoping next year to start mymy next query, okay, well, I
want to get you ready for thereal world. So we're gonna get
out of these kinds of these bioquestions. And you know, who is
a salon? So
we are now going to get you forthese tough demanding questions.
All right. And because I heardyou talking about the speech,
you were going to maybe try towork in a song quote, you're
(13:47):
saying I'm a big music person,as I told you Off mic, huge,
huge concert person I pricey andover 1500 concerts in my life
and travel around the world andgo and see bands and such. So
music is a big passion for me.So I always like to ask people,
if you could choose one song toplay every time you walked into
a room, what would you choose?And why? Well, that's an
interesting question. I have noidea. That's okay. So what did
(14:12):
you were you when you weretalking about you might want to
work? You had an artist you saidin the speech that you that kind
of inspired you. Maybe itdoesn't have to reflect you, but
you want to work it into thespeech. What were you were we
thinking at the time? Well, Ilove Mitski I was able to see
her a few months back, but hermusic is very, very sad. And I
do love sad music. But if Ievery time I've walked into the
(14:35):
room of very sad
people would get very sad aroundme, so I got to be something
uplifting. Okay. We've alwayscome back to that. But where do
you see miss kia? I saw her atthe Fillmore in Philly. Love
that venue. It's gorgeous.venue. It's one of my favorites.
Have you been to the met yet?Actually, wait, no. I saw her at
the mat. Okay, so it's evenbetter venue. I mean, it was
(14:57):
gorgeous. There. Okay. Yeah, ithas like that. Oh,
like Philadelphia, it's the oldPhiladelphia Opera House. They
rebuilt it and renovated into amodern time. So it's crazy good
there. But like I said, I couldtalk music with you all day
every day. But peek inside you alittle bit more. Because
sometimes, you know, these theseprofessional interviews they
don't like to ask you about yourresume and your background, your
(15:17):
camp 2030 are, you know, if youknow Mandarin, right, but they
want to know, some off the wallstuff, the kind of stuff you
from the other candidates? Whatdo you think about when you're
alone in your car? Well, I can'tdrive because I'm terrified of
cars. But when you're in a caror bus or whatever,
Unknown (15:35):
I do love playing music. I just like sit with my
thoughts and like stare at thewindow. That's sad. Magnitsky
music. Maybe, no. Um,
I don't know, I think I thinkabout the weather, which is
very, very boring. But I like tolook around. I love poetry as
(15:59):
well. So I like to look aroundme and I like to look at all of
the things around me. And maybethat's how right now it's
springtime. And there's like allthese gorgeous blooming trees
out and I get to appreciate thatI get to look at the world
around me and like, think like,wow, there's flowers and
grandmas. That's gorgeous.There's like some people over
there talking they look so happylike just appreciating the world
(16:22):
around me and definitely likebeing a spectator and taking
that moment to step back andlike just like process
everything just appreciate life.Yeah, I think definitely
Jason Varga (16:33):
having the ability to appreciate where I'm at is
like such a valuable thing. It'sgood perspective to have ya
know, and I wish we had a littlebit longer spring as it seems
like we go from winter to summerand then a little bit of spring.
It's like crazy weather. It'sbeen insane. Yeah, it's
gorgeous. Right now it's gonnabe gorgeous for commencement.
But you know, I'm, I've beenI've a crazy Canna lily
addiction lately, it's been kindof which my wife hates, because
(16:55):
how tall they get and stuff. SoI'm kind of thinning them out
and trying to do this wholebackdrop on my fence. I'm trying
to build this whole tropicalvibe in the backyard as low
scape because the same thinglike just kind of sit out there
in the back deck, have a cup ofcoffee, you know, now I got my
daughter and I'm trying toeventually get her to like, you
know, understanding bulbs, whichshe doesn't she just throws dirt
everywhere. Puts rocks in hermouth, but you know, we'll get
we'll get we'll get there. Butyes, and let's find our
(17:18):
appreciation for because it'slike, I don't know, it's
something about like you saidwatching it grow but just kind
of like the work you kind ofputting into it and sowing the
seeds a little bit right andjust kind of seeing the fruits
of your labor and all theseother cliches that you have
going on. But
alright, so another veryimportant question. What would
your slogan be if you were abrand?
(17:39):
Okay, heavy thoughts on theprogram pod. I just just serious
question
Janie's on
Unknown (17:49):
I think
it is what it is. It is what itis a bit basic as well. But I
think sometimes people can getvery upset about things people
can like,
end up in a situation where theyfeel really like negative bowel
situation, like, you kind ofjust kind of let it go, you
(18:10):
know, and you gotta let it justlike radical acceptance, just
like it is what it is, like iswhat it is. It's a nice, easy
phrase. I like that.
Jason Varga (18:19):
All right, the most important question before we
wrap things up here. How wouldyou rate me as an interviewer?
Well, I've never beeninterviewed before, but I'd say
10 out of 1010 out of 10. Allright, moving up in a world I
love. Thank you.
Alright, so is there anythingyou know, we want you want to
say to your fellow classmates, Iknow you kind of had a little
bit in your in your speech,which I'm going to pull up your
(18:40):
speech to from the YouTubebecause we are going to be
streaming it live. You know, itwill be on YouTube and go back
and watch it over and over andover share with whoever but for
the audio podcast, I do liketake a little bit of a clip and
say like, Hey, listeners, checkout what No, she got to say. But
any advice any less other thingsyou want to say to your fellow
2024 Spring graduates. I mean,it's just been incredible to
(19:02):
take this journey with you allhave been able to meet so many
incredible people at rcbc I cannever stop saying that. Because
I honestly I would not be myselfwithout the people around me.
And having the opportunity tomeet everyone to go to classes
with everyone to engage witheveryone. It has been just an
(19:25):
honor to be here so it's anhonor finally actually get to
meet you as well. Personally,I've seen you all on campus your
one definitely stands out. Andcongrats again for being the
President's Award winner gettingready to speak in front of the
liberal arts students you'regonna you're gonna crush it I
know it is you're gonna do greatthings. When you get out of here
and stuff and we'll still behere you can come explore the
(19:45):
campus and you can see all theother flowers and stuff growing
up and they're building on butIslam thanks for coming on the
show. And you know, anybody wantto shut up or say goodbye? or
anything?
Unknown (19:57):
Thank you Harlow, my sister
Jason Varga (20:00):
There we go. And to all my friends as well, thank
you guys, my parents as well.Okay, there it is. And Erica
Franklin. Thank you, Erica.She's awesome. I've worked for
her for my entire career as a coworker, she's like, absolutely
incredible person. She's greatto learn from. And she's, she's
one of the exceptional peoplehere at OCBC a lot of
exceptional people, but which Ithink this community is great
(20:20):
because we, you know, you cansee how much she cares about
people like yourself and thestudents. And that's what it's
all about. It's all about seeingthe success, you know, grow from
when you get here to thiscommencement and, and beyond,
right and looking back, and it'sjust kind of like, it's like
almost a proud parent typemoment. Right. So Eric is great
person. So I'm glad you broughther up. But again, thanks for
coming on the show. And I lookforward to seeing you do it
(20:42):
live. Thank you so much forhaving me. Take care, take care.
And there she goes a Zlin fatewho indeed went on to crush it
during her speech at the liberalarts commencement, which we're
about to hear a few pieces ofaudio from next, but it was a
wild week leading up tograduation as the weather wasn't
really cooperating, pushing backthe ceremony a day for Wednesday
to Thursday. But eventually,everything all started to line
(21:04):
up perfectly for the rcbcgraduates who are ready to get
the party started. So let'scheck out a few moments from
liberal arts ceremony, whichincludes a crowded introduction
from President COC who alsoshares the news about a new name
for the liberal arts division, aclip from a Zealands president's
award speech to her classmatesand a powerful and inspirational
message from a special keynotespeaker tied to the Philadelphia
(21:26):
Phillies, Greg Murphy. Let'scheck it out. Good morning. My
name is Mike COC and I have thedistinct pleasure of being the
president here at Rowan College,Burlington County and I would
like to welcome everyone in thecrowd, Darcy BCS spring
graduation ceremony. I'm so gladthat you could join us to
celebrate the success of thesegood looking students. Our
(21:46):
campus never looks better thanthis time of year when it's
filled with our inspirationalgraduates. They're proud and
supportive friends and familiesand those of us who are
privileged to work with all ofthem. This morning ceremony
celebrates students in majorsfrom the liberal arts division,
which this summer will beundergoing a name change to the
humanities, Business and SocialSciences Division. Before we
(22:08):
begin, I would like to take amoment to thank my mother she
has given me so much startingwith both my life and my name.
President Cioce (22:16):
So I would like to acknowledge all the other
Michaels in the audience today.Are there any mics in the
audience?
If there are please stand withme for a moment of recognition.
None are y'all Logan's and DECLinds. And
anyway. All right. Well, thatwas our Mic check. So all the
(22:37):
mics can now be seated with thenon mics. If you know the amount
of dad jokes that are on thecutting room floor that involved
the word Riz slay.
My 10 year old told me I was tooold to use those words and then
responded with what the sigma
(22:58):
but the mic joke serves as amessage to our graduates as they
prepare for their new career ortheir next University. Next up,
we're going to hear from onevery impressive bearing as a
homeschooled student aislin fatehad never attended school before
joining the rcbc community. Shedove into every opportunity she
could to learn as much aspossible and emerge from those
(23:20):
waters determined to give backto fellow barons.
A son finished with a 3.8 GPAwhile exploring topics such as
Chinese and astronomy. She hasserved this community in the
food pantry, she's traveled toNew York with a delegation of
young leaders to collaborate onsolutions to global problems.
It's no surprise that ASINs teamwon that global competition.
(23:44):
After you hear her story, I'msure that you're going to agree
it will not be the last timethat she will be standing on a
grand stage as a winner. Pleasewelcome 2024 liberal arts
President's Award winner aislinFate
Unknown (24:02):
Hello, everyone.
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemedfaculty, those who come to
support and of course my fellowgraduates of 2024. It is an
honor to be here today to sharethis incredible journey with you
all. I'd like to start bycongratulating the class of
2024.
(24:24):
You have all overcomeconsiderable obstacles to reach
our goals and be here. Today isa day of celebration, reflection
and gratitude. As we gather hereto mark the culmination of our
academic journeys at rcbc I amdeeply honored to share my story
with you. My experience witheducation is very unique. I was
homeschooled my entire lifeuntil college, but
(24:45):
unfortunately, I did not haveaccess to the resources I
needed, nor was I a part of anyhomeschooling programs. I had a
very isolated childhood with mysister being the only consistent
interaction I had with otherchildren my age, this deep
really affected my ability tolearn and develop social skills.
Because my family was unable toprovide the support I needed due
(25:06):
to the financial struggles andhealth problems. I struggled
with my own mental health andentered a time in my life where
became so depressed that Istruggled to feel emotions at
age 11. For the next six years,I would enter a very difficult
period in my life, where I feltpowerless and incapable of
achieving my goals. I began toidolize college as time when my
(25:26):
life would really began, whenI'd be able to start working,
make friends and receive aneducation. I remember telling
myself that I just needed tomake it to college view in
college as the light at the endof the tunnel.
Growing up, I was told I'd begincollege at age 16. And as I got
closer to this age, I felt likecollege was becoming closer. And
(25:49):
that light, light was becomingbrighter. And suddenly, when I
became 16, COVID happened,everything shut down. And the
hope I had faded away and I wasagain sent into a dark place in
my life. Despite how I struggledduring that time, I pushed
through the darkness of thattunnel, hoping the light at the
end would be worth it.
Then in 2021, at 17 years old, Ibegan at rcbc. I had never been
(26:13):
inside a classroom before andhad interacted with many people,
my age graduates, the fact thatyou are here today is proof that
you have overcome difficultobstacles. Maybe you have
already made it through thattunnel. Maybe graduation is the
light for you. Or maybe yourlight is still yet to come. But
in some way you've endured it isby taking the opportunities
(26:34):
available to us where we giveour tails chances to grow.
Every chance you have to trysomething new is a chance to
become a better person.
I encourage you to seize everyopportunity that comes your way.
Because every opportunity youtake to appreciate what you have
or might have might become yourreason to continue through that
tunnel. And when you can try totake a moment to share that
(26:57):
light with others. Give back tothe people who have supported
you and do your best to liftothers up every chance you get.
Say hi to the people see you sitnext to hold the door for
someone give a stranger acompliment. We improve ourselves
by uplifting those around us.I'd like to extend my gratitude
to everyone who has supported usthrough this journey at rcbc.
(27:18):
And to the incredible staff andfaculty that work tirelessly to
improve the lives of studentshere. Thank you for all that you
do.
And graduates, as you journeyahead with life, know this, you
have struggled, you haveendured, and you have come out
(27:39):
on top as an accomplishedindividual. I know that because
you have made it here today. Nomatter how hard it can be, or
how long you endure. You willfind that light at the end of
the tunnel. Class of 2024 Wemade it.
President Cioce (27:56):
Congratulations and thank you. Awesome. I think
one of the biggest bummers ofaislin graduating is that I'm
not gonna see her in the SSCbecause she was a fixture. I
think I thought she like movedin. Because she was there. And
then so when people will say oh,it's too loud in the SSC. I'm
like student building, they'reallowed to make as much noise as
(28:17):
they want. So nice job. Aislinnreally hit that one out of the
park. On our next speaking ofhitting one out of the park, our
next speaker knows how to callit when someone really hits one
out of the park Philliesbroadcaster Greg Murphy, as a
broadcaster and an on fieldreporter Greg Murphy has been in
our homes through television andradio bringing us closer to the
(28:38):
action of the fight andPhillies. Some huge sporting
events such as the NCAAtournament, the Super Bowl, the
NBA Finals, and the WorldSeries. Maybe again this year.
Murph, as viewers know him andpeople were like screaming his
name out as we were walking up,grew up in Mount Laurel and
graduated from Holycross highschool before attending St.
(28:58):
Joe's University.
Personally as a Phillies fan,I've always felt like Greg was a
neighbor. Before I found out heliterally was a neighbor having
grown up here.
Off the field. He earned theLeukemia and Lymphoma Society
visionary of the Year award in2023, given to individuals
leading in the fight againstblood cancer, a fight that Murph
(29:18):
himself courageously survived.So besides calling names for the
best baseball team on theplanet, he's part of our
community, and has demonstratedthe grit and generosity of a
baron, which is why I'm honoredto invite Greg to share his
story with class of 2024 astoday's keynote speaker. Well,
good morning, andcongratulations, rcbc graduates,
(29:40):
you're looking good. Despite therain yesterday, it looks like we
still almost have a sellout,which is what we like in the
world of baseball. Before Istart my comments, let me just
say aislin Wow, what a greatrepresentation for this class of
2024 having another round ofapplause for aislin
Unknown (29:59):
Rad
Let me start by saying thank youto President COC, the board of
trustees, the faculty and staff,and the rcbc graduates and your
families who are here today.Thank you so much for inviting
me here on campus. It's anabsolute pleasure to be here
with you today and an honor tobe standing in front of you. As
(30:21):
President COC just mentioned, Iliterally grew up about a mile
and a half from this campus. Itwas a wonderful time in my life,
I grew up with a father who wasa school teacher, a mother who
was a legal secretary, we didn'thave a whole lot. But they both
worked tirelessly to make suremy brother sister and I had
everything that we could need orwant. For my part through
(30:43):
elementary school and highschool. I did just what I needed
to get by. I love sports,obviously. I love socializing
with my friends. I was smart,but I certainly wasn't the
smartest. I was athletic. But Icertainly wasn't the most
athletic.
But hard work, diligent in mystudies, working up to my
(31:06):
potential, not really my thing.
It wasn't until I got to collegethat I realized, if I wanted to
be successful,
if I wanted to think about afuture beyond just tomorrow, I
needed to figure out what mydreams for my future were. And I
needed to change the way I wasdoing things. Luckily for me,
(31:27):
the beginning of that changehappened in my first semester,
in college, I had entered St.Joseph's University, with the
idea that I was going to go tolaw school afterwards and be an
attorney. I kind of picturedmyself as one of those TV
attorneys that was pacing backand forth in front of the jury
box, making a point and thenwhipping around and catching the
(31:48):
witness in a lie and turning thetrial upside down on its head. I
watched a lot of TV back then.
But one night, my freshman yeara good friend of mine asked if I
would go with him to a meetingon campus for a brand new radio
station that was starting at St.Joe's. he fancied himself a
music DJ. I didn't really haveany interest in going but I
(32:10):
didn't have anything better todo either. So I decided to tag
along. When we got to the room,there was about 40 or 50 people
there. And the speaker at thefront of the room was talking
about different opportunities.And he asked the room is anyone
interested in being the play byplay guy for the men's and
women's basketball team here atSt. Joe's?
(32:30):
I looked around and most of thefolks were like my buddy very
much into music, not so muchinto sports and nobody raised
their hand.
So I thought to myself, well,that sounds kind of cool. So I
did raise my hand. And before Iknew it, I was sitting in
Philadelphia's famed Polestarcalling my first college
(32:50):
basketball game, St. Joe'sversus Drexel.
And it was that moment that Idiscovered that was the dream I
was meant to follow. By raisingmy hand on impulse by taking a
chance. I arrived at the momentwhen I realized broadcasting was
the career path that I wanted tochoose.
(33:13):
I tell you that story. Because Iwant you to understand that you
never know when a new dream willstart. You never know when a new
door will open. That's the waylife works. So you have to be
ready.
You have to be open to the ideathat your life today will be
different than your life fiveyears from now. 10 years from
(33:34):
now. 30 years from now.
You have to believe andunderstand that the associate's
degree that you will be awardedtoday is a key to new or enrich
dreams. You have to be willingto listen to the universe and
know when a new opportunity ispresenting itself to you. And
(33:54):
then you have to be brave enoughto embrace that new opportunity
and see where it takes you.
So I challenge you as you moveon in your life with your new
degree in hand. Put yourself ona path to figure out what
excites you. What gets yourheart beating? What puts those
butterflies in your stomach.
(34:17):
Dr. Xu Varma the author of abook called practical optimism,
said this. Trust that when youfind that special surge of
energy, that glow of soulsatisfaction,
you'll know it. There's no otherfeeling like it.
Dr. Varma encourages all of usto tune into what our minds and
(34:37):
hearts are telling us and whenyou feel it and when you find
it. Don't be afraid of it.
Some of you may have alreadyfound it. Some of you might
still be looking and that'sokay. I found mine in that musty
meeting room at the Campionstudent center back in October
of 1989. And I didn't even knowI was looking
(34:59):
today
each one of you has taken thatfirst step towards that special
surge of energy. That step beingeducation. The education you
ever received here at rcbc, willinevitably open doors and clear
paths to places andopportunities that you may never
have dreamed of. Now it's up toyou to take that step forward,
(35:23):
get out of your comfort zone,and accept the challenges that
only education can present. For30 years, I've made a living
covering sports watching themost gifted athletes on the
planet do their thing. For thelast 12 years, baseball has been
the center of my professionallife. And I think baseball is a
perfect metaphor for what wehave here today. And what is
(35:46):
ahead for you the graduates of2024.
Baseball is hard. Baseball is agame of failure.
Nobody in the game of baseballsucceeds 100% of the time. In
fact, nobody succeeds. 50% ofthe time,
a baseball player who gets a hitthree out of every time 10 times
(36:07):
is considered an all star,anything more than that, and you
are a bonafide Hall of Famer.
In other words, even the goodplayers fail 70% of the time.
Welcome to the real world,because it'll be no different
for most of us. But it's thosepeople and those players that
learn with each failure, thatare ultimately the ones that we
(36:31):
remember. So don't be afraid offailure, embrace failure, and
learn from the things that keepyou from success today. So that
tomorrow, you can succeed.
No matter what your step is,your education does not end
today, it shifts it changes, butit never ends. In baseball, it's
(36:52):
three strikes and you're out.But in life, that's not the
case. If it were most of us uphere on stage would be down and
out a long time ago. No lifewill throw you your share of
curveballs, that's for sure. Andyou will swing and miss. But the
beauty of life in baseball isthere's always another inning to
play. Always another gametomorrow. And always another
(37:15):
goal to achieve. So to that end,go out, experience, live, learn
more, and succeed. And rememberthat we are all just blessed to
be in the game, and having achance to play ball. I wish all
of you all the success that thisworld has to offer.
Congratulations, class of 2024and go Phil's.
President Cioce (37:41):
Before we conclude,
join me in applauding thefaculty and staff who have
worked tirelessly to prepare thenext generation of leaders.
All of the family and friends inthe audience who have supported
our graduates every step oftheir long journey
(38:06):
you have an air horn now's thetime to drain it.
Unknown (38:10):
And ramp ramp ramp ramp.
President Cioce (38:17):
And of course one final round of applause for
the graduates congratulations onyour accomplishments.
Jason Varga (38:28):
Guests, please remain standing while our
platform guests exit and leadthe faculty staff and graduates
out of the quad. Congratulationsclass of 2024 Wow. I mean, who
else got chills up and downtheir spines are made throughout
their body or whatever. I know Idid. And it was pretty awesome
to have Greg Murphy of thePhiladelphia Phillies right
there doing the speech for theliberal arts crowd there but
(38:50):
also pretty timely, since thePhillies are the best team in
baseball, at least at the timeof this recording. And hopefully
they're going to keep it up allsummer long and maybe, maybe
bring back another World Seriesto Philadelphia. But anyway,
that's gonna do it for part oneof our three parts spring 2024
rcbc commencement coverage hereon the program pod coming up. In
part two, we'll hear fromPresident's Award winner Taiwo
(39:12):
RJ Conley and the other specialguests keynote speaker, New
Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. Fornow, if you want to watch the
full speeches and full liberalarts commencement presentation,
it's available at our cvcsYouTube page and be sure to
check out our Facebook andInstagram channels for pictures
of the ceremony because whoknows, maybe you're in one of
those pictures. Also, if youwant to know more about the
(39:32):
liberal arts programs, soon tobe called humanities, Business
and Social Sciences Divisionoffered at rcbc. Check out
rcbc.edu or of course subscribeto this podcast right here the
program pod wherever you getyour podcasts for deeper dives
into these types of programs.Through the perspectives of
students, faculty and employers.This is Jay Varga signing off
and congrats once again to theclass of 2024 Go Phil's
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