Obama to give Rutgers commencement address

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) - President Barack Obama will deliver Rutgers University's commencement speech in May.

The university announced Thursday the president will speak at the school's 250th anniversary commencement on May 15 at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway. The event is expected to draw more than 50,000 people.

Obama will also deliver commencement addresses at Howard University and the Air Force Academy.

More than 12,000 graduates are expected to receive their degrees.

Rutgers University President Robert Barchi says it is the first time a sitting president has spoken at the school's commencement. 

"We are delighted that President Obama has chosen to address our graduates at this year’s historic commencement,” said Rutgers University President Robert Barchi. 

“This is the first time in Rutgers University’s history that a sitting president has agreed to speak at commencement. President Obama’s decision is a testament to the enthusiastic efforts of Rutgers students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as members of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, who sent numerous messages to the White House urging the president to join our 250th anniversary graduation ceremony,” added Barchi.

Earlier this month, the school had announced journalist Bill Moyers would be the speaker.

The address will take place during the university's yearlong celebration that culminates on Nov. 10, 2016 – the 250th anniversary of the birth of Queen’s College.

That colonial institution became Rutgers College in 1825.

In 1924, Rutgers College assumed university status. By 1956, acts by the New Jersey State Legislature designated all of Rutgers’ divisions as The State University of New Jersey.