WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J. — 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, drew loud cheers when 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.
