Commencement feature story

The big day has arrived for San Jose State graduates class of 2018 to start a new chapter in their lives. Dwayne Johnson, also known as ‘The Rock’ will be attending the graduation ceremony as a commencement speaker. 

Johnson will be attending to the graduation to speak with SJSU students to inspire them in whatever path they choose to follow as well as to motivate them. 

The graduation ceremony will be held at the Event Center at San Jose State University and at Avaya Stadium, Wednesday, May 23, 2018. 

Graduate students will be allowed to bring up to 10 guests each to the commencement ceremony. 

In order to have the opportunity to see Johnson speak graduating students are encouraged to complete the Intent to Participate form. 

By doing so each graduate name will be called on to the stage to shake hands with Johnson and other campus leaders while receiving their bachelor’s degree. 

“Hopefully students will take into account any advice Johnson will provide because it will for sure help them out in their careers in the future,” said CASA Advisor, Anthony Korsund.

Johnson born May 2, 1972 in Hayward, CA, also known by his professional wrestling name ‘The Rock’, is an American actor, producer, and semi-retired professional who became a big inspiration to many people across the world. 

He lived in New Zealand for a brief period and attended Richmond Road Primary School before returning to the United States. 

He made his WWF debut as Rocky Maivia in 1996 and won the WWF intercontinental Championship. He established himself as a successful professional wrestler. 

“I am extremely honored and excited to be chosen as a commencement speaker for the SJSU class of 2018 graduation and to share this special moment by inspiring them all,” said Johnson. 

Students will get the opportunity to have a one on one conversation with Johnson and take pictures with him. 

“Bringing such an important figure as a commencement speaker whose an inspiration to many will definitely motivate students and keep whatever he has to say in mind because its coming from a person who’s worked hard to get to where he is currently at,” said Dean of College of Applied Sciences and Arts, Dr. Mary C. Schutten. 

For guests to attend the ceremony students must claim their guest tickets after completing the application for participation.