NEWARK -- It was much more than just the usual pomp and circumstance.

Of course, each one of the New Jersey Institute of Technology's more than 2,300 Class of 2017 graduates celebrated a milestone achievement Tuesday. But, the school's 101st commencement ceremony also included a marriage proposal, and a 100th birthday celebration.

Near the end of the ceremony, Sina Nassim, a graduate who received a bachelor's degree in biology, proposed to his girlfriend, Zainoishi, who had been proudly watching the ceremony from the stands. The moment was caught on the Prudential Center's jumbotron for all of Nassim's classmates to see.

"Judging by her gesture, I think she said 'yes,'" NJIT Provost and Senior Executive Vice President Fadi P. Deek said in a statement about the surprise proposal.

The college also presented a "most senior alumnus" award to Herman Blackman. The Class of 1938 alum recently celebrated his 100th birthday, school officials said.

And, on top of the unusual commencement celebrations, NJIT also honored the largest graduating class in its history.

"By virtue of earning a degree from NJIT, you have demonstrated the capacity to make significant contributions to your communities and to society as a whole," President Joel S. Bloom told the Class of 2017.

"In your chosen fields and professions, endeavor to create and innovate in ways that enhance the greater good, not simply the profit margin."

The school also awarded honorary degrees to J. Robert Hillier, an architect and founder of Studio Hillier, Philip L. Rinaldi, founder of Philadelphia Energy Solutions, and commencement speaker Rochelle Hendricks, New Jersey's first Secretary of Higher Education.

"I confess that I am expecting great things from you and for you," Hendricks said.

"We are all meant to shine, and I am confident that the NJIT experience releases you from your fears."

Jessica Mazzola may be reached at jmazzola@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @JessMazzola. Find NJ.com on Facebook.