At Stony Brook University’s 55th commencement ceremony May 22nd at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium, 6,298 students had their degrees conferred, becoming the University’s newest alumni. During the ceremony, two of Long Island’s most prominent luminaries, Billy Joel and Charles Wang, received honorary degrees – a Doctor of Music and Doctor of Humane Letters, respectively.
“I hope that by now you have found what it is you love and I hope that you have learned the skills you need to make what you love your life's work,” said Billy Joel during his acceptance speech. “I wish for you the stamina to continue that work when you encounter resistance and tough times … if you're not doing what you love, you're just wasting your time.”
Charles B. Wang, during his acceptance speech, stated his beliefs in four points: “One – you can make a difference; two – integrity and loyalty are only words until tested; three – love life to the fullest; and four – have fun.” He also described his inspiration to create the Charles B. Wang Center, an Asian and Asian-American cultural hub at the University.
Read more at StonyBrook.edu and Hamptons.com. Congratulations to Stony Brook University's Class of 2015!
View exclusive photos in the Stony Brook University Commencement 2015 Gallery. Photos by Jeff Schock.
Billy Joel Speech At Stony Brook University Commencement
At one point, the microphone goes dead and Billy fixes it. Video courtesy of Stony Brook University.
Billy Joel (awarded a Doctor of Music) and Charles Wang (awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters) before the commencement ceremony at Stony Brook University on May 22, 2015.
Graduates throw their caps at Stony Brook University's commencement ceremony at LaValle Stadium on May 22, 2015.
Stony Brook University President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.; Billy Joel; Long Island businessman and philanthropist Charles B. Wang; and Trustee, State University of New York Cary Staller at the commencement ceremony on May 22, 2015.
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- Billy Joel Among Those To Receive Honorary Degree, Give Speech At Stony Brook University – April 20, 2015