LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ -- In receiving one of three honorary degrees at Rider University's 132nd commencement today, U.S. Senator Robert G. Torricelli advised a class of 1,037 graduate and undergraduate degree recipients that there is more to a full life than simply achieving tremendous financial and career successes.

Although admitting he did not have the life experiences to offer profound advice for the graduates, the junior Senator from New Jersey cited the remarks of another young Senator from the past who shared Torricelli's belief that strong family values form the backbone of American society, economic stability, and happiness.

"I remind you of the words Robert Kennedy said on a similar occasion, at a similar time in the life of our country, when asked what advice he could give to people in good economic times," Torricelli told the graduates. "He said simply this: 'Our country is not measured by the growth of our economy alone, but by the strength of our marriages, the laughter of our children, the commitment to our faith, and the happiness and pleasure that we can seek in life.'

"Excel, and do well. Remember there are these qualities to a good and balanced life as well."

Torricelli added that this honorary degree is the most special among the degrees he holds, not only because of Rider's fine reputation, but also jokingly because "it is the only one I've received in my life for which I do not now owe a student loan."

In addition to Torricelli, honorary Doctor of Laws degrees were presented to Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg Financial Markets, and S. Howard Woodson, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church of Trenton, NJ, and former city councilman and state assemblyman.

Bloomberg, whose company employs more than 80 Rider alumni, advised, "There are no secrets. You've got to go in early, you've got to stay late, and you've got to get other people to help you by helping them. If you do that, you will be very proud of what you've accomplished, and realize that this is just one stepping stone."

Woodson continued Bloomberg's theme, suggesting to graduates, "Do not lay back upon your rewards today. Recognize that you are being challenged to go out and help someone else. Reach out to inspire someone else; reach out to tell someone else 'you can do it -- you can make it if only you will try.'"

In addition, the Rider University Awards for Distinguished Teaching were presented to Dr. John F. Hulsman of Lawrenceville, NJ, associate professor of English, and Dr. Jonathan H. Millen of Yardley, PA, associate professor of communications.

Matthew Scott Fuellhart of Ewing Township, NJ, who received his degree in computer information systems, gave the student address. Fuellhart works full-time at night at Bloomberg's Princeton, NJ offices, challenged his classmates to continue to travel forward on what he called the "highway of life."