A selfie is worth 113 students’ words. Getting the authenticity of the individuality picture was the message relayed to 113 eighth grade graduates of Forrestdale School in Rumson on Monday evening.

Rumson School District Superintendent John Bormann told the grads that social media, which played a significant role in this era in shaping the middle school growing up experience, could be a strength in providing the students with an opportunity to “be part of something larger than yourselves.” He highlighted the importance of being authentic and using the platform to “be sure your unique voice stands out.”

He chose the quote, unattributed in his speech, by Arlan Hamilton, that stresses “Be yourself so that people looking for you can find you.”

“You have completed your journey through middle school and now you stand on the threshold of new beginnings,” Bormann added, talking about the journey the students are on. “You have carved out a path unique to you only and today we celebrate not just your achievements, but the individuals you have become … Being yourself is not just about accepting who you are, but celebrating it, understanding that your uniqueness is your strength … Don’t be afraid to stand out or be different.”

Embracing authenticity and using social media to a positive end to accomplish just that Bormann’s well-received message.

With that, he embraced the moment and said it was “time for a selfie for MY Instagram,” taking several of himself with the class.

He ended his address before diplomas with, “Embrace this next chapter with confidence and authenticity.”

Congratulations to the Forrestdale Class of 2024!

Here’s a peek into the graduation night, before, during and after, courtesy of Rumson School District … A livestream video of the graduation can be found on YouTube.