County College of Morris awards degrees, certificates to nearly 1,000 graduates at 56th Commencement
RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — County College of Morris (CCM) held its 56th Commencement ceremony Thursday at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown, awarding associate degrees and certificates to nearly 1,000 graduates in a celebration marked by community pride, inspiring stories, and future aspirations.
CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono welcomed a packed arena despite rainy skies, reflecting on the college’s history and its role as “the community’s college.”
“Graduates, many of you know CCM in its present state,” Iacono said. “But for decades it has been a school cared for by its community, a place where dreams are fulfilled by talented students just like you.”
Iacono spotlighted several graduates whose journeys reflected perseverance and passion, including:
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Juan Marin de la Rosa, of Parsippany, who earned his second associate degree in nursing and has been hired by Morristown Medical Center.
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Denise DeMaio, of Wharton, who worked evening shifts at UPS to pursue her music degree in hopes of becoming a music therapist.
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Tyler Hamlett, of Budd Lake, who balanced his studies in criminal justice with leadership roles, performing arts, and volunteer firefighting.
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Landon Tanyeri, of Sparta, SGA president, who earned a degree in liberal arts and will attend Rutgers University to study public policy.
“Take advantage of the open doors,” Tanyeri told classmates. “Doors custom-tailored to only fit you, which will be left shut if the key walks by.”
Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners shared his journey from Turkish immigrant to local leader. He emphasized the county’s investment in CCM’s future, including upcoming expansions in healthcare, culinary science, and workforce training.
“You now hold the type of skills being demanded by New Jersey’s leading sectors,” Selen said. “Opportunities don’t always knock—sometimes you have to build the door yourself.”
Keynote speaker U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John T. Reim, Commanding General of Picatinny Arsenal and head of the Army’s munitions programs, encouraged graduates to trust their instincts, be humble, set a positive tone, and make a difference.
“You are County College of Morris proud. You are Jersey tough. And you are ready to build the future,” Reim said.
The ceremony concluded with CCM Board of Trustees Chair Paul Licitra praising the class’s grit and resilience, reminding them that success is built “through daily effort.” Graduates exited to embraces from faculty, family, and friends as the CCM Chamber Choir and mascot Titus closed the celebration.
