Farmingdale State speaker: Focus on the future

Farmingdale State College

Number of graduates: 1,014

Commencement speaker: Robert Ench, alumnus and businessman. He graduated from the school's horticulture program in 1960 and later developed Flower Time, a local garden center, into 38 retail centers in New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. He went on to become chairman of an operation that had 250 stores across the nation, including Frank's Nursery. He was selected by first lady Lady Bird Johnson to work on several beautification projects in Washington, D.C.

He said he would tell graduates, "You don't have to start at the top. Start where there is a future."

In his words: "Farmingdale State is a special place. It has been my honor and privilege to work on many wonderful events and have helped raise over a million dollars in horticultural scholarships," adding he has also helped maintain horticultural gardens and other campus properties.

"My life would not have been possible without Farmingdale's education," he said. "There are some of you who will give back to Farmingdale after graduation - you will receive so much more in return, as I have over the last 50 years."

Valedictorian: Mary O'Neil, 22, of Amityville Harbor, who received a bachelor of science in nursing, said, "Never underestimate the power of doing a good deed. I think all of you have taught me that. As we celebrate our accomplishments and look forward to our future careers, we can do so with hope and confidence. We are the leaders of tomorrow, not merely because we have a degree, but because we have a vision: a vision of a better community and a better world."

Kevin Kelly, 22, Associate degree in ornamental horticulture and landscape development

"I'm going to proceed to get my bachelor's in landscape architecture, possibly at the University of Georgia. But right now, I'm just going to enjoy the day."

Graduates speak out

Brittany D'Alessandro, 21

Associate degree in dental hygiene

"I'm going to become a dental hygienist. I got an offer to work at a hospital. I want to start off part-time because I want to continue to get my bachelor's and I'm going to come back here. Farmingdale State is great. It's been a good experience."

Annie Sackichand, 22

Bachelor of science in construction management/engineering technology

"I'm going to work full-time as a field engineer at a construction company. I'm getting married, and it's my birthday next week. I have a lot going on. But I'm really excited about the future."

Byron Romero, 22

Bachelor of science in architectural engineering technology

"After five years of being in school, I want to go out there and find a job, get experience and move on, maybe get into a master's program and major in the new wave, which is green technology for buildings. The main thing is to enjoy this moment and see where it leads."

Jeremy Parris, 22

Bachelor of science in construction management/engineering technology

"I have a job and will be working as a project manager. I'll take it from there. I think things are looking good for the future. I'll also go back to school at some point. But as for now, I just want to enjoy the day."