Saturday, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute held its 195th Commencement Ceremony at Pepsi Arena in Albany. Over 1,100 graduates received degrees. Bill Cosby delivered the main commencement address, urging graduates to learn from everyone, even the "janitor or the person making coffee." Dr. Cosby, who received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts and Humane Letters, delivered his address after removing his doctoral regalia, revealing a red Rensselaer sweatshirt.

Senator Charles E. Schumer also addressed the new graduates and their families. Schumer called Rensselaer "one of the greatest universities in the entire nation" and paid tribute to President Jackson for her leadership.