Edited sentence: On May 15 President Barack Obama became first sitting president to speak at the university's commencement.Rutgers also has close ties to figures who grew up or continue to live in New Jersey with notable figures such as Chris Christie, justices Antonin Scalia and Samuel Alito, and Alice Waters each having a parent who attended the institution.Rutgers celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2016.Rutgers invited multiple notable alumni from around the world to the celebration.Today Rutgers enjoys global influence with alumni rooted around the globe.[32] The university held a variety of celebrations, academic programs, and commemorative events which culminated on the 250th anniversary date, November 10, 2016