Kean to Replace Rice at Rutgers Graduation

Rutgers University says former New Jersey Gov. Tom Kean will deliver the commencement address at this month's graduation ceremony.

The announcement came Monday afternoon, two days after former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice had backed out as the speaker. Her decision came after protests by some faculty and students over her role in the Iraq War while she served under President George W. Bush.

The school's board of governors had voted to pay Rice $35,000 for her appearance at the May 18 ceremony. She was also due to receive an honorary doctorate.

Rutgers officials say Kean will not accept a speaking fee for his remarks. He received an honorary doctor of laws degree from Rutgers University in 1982.

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