Jon Bon Jovi has received numerous accolades throughout his career, and now, he is being celebrated in a very special way at his former high school in New Jersey. On Tuesday, October 1, the rock icon, best known for hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer,” returned to Sayreville War Memorial High School in Parlin, New Jersey, for a memorable dedication ceremony. The school renamed its auditorium as the Jon Bon Jovi Performing Arts Center in his honor.
Bon Jovi, who attended Sayreville for his junior and senior years after starting high school at St. Joseph High School in Metuchen, shared his gratitude for the recognition. In an Instagram post on October 2, he expressed, “So humbled that Sayreville High named their performing arts center yesterday. It’s a great honor for us.”
The post featured images from the event, including Bon Jovi posing in front of the newly renamed auditorium, standing with students in front of a mural dedicated to him, and with “Coach T,” a character mentioned in his song “Just Older.” He concluded the post with the heartfelt words, “Once a Bomber, always a Bomber,” referencing his school’s mascot.
In addition to the auditorium, Sayreville War Memorial High School also renamed its music suite after Bon Jovi. As part of his induction into the school’s Hall of Fame, the singer donated a brand-new, state-of-the-art recording studio to the school’s performing arts department, along with commemorative t-shirts for students.
The school expressed its appreciation for Bon Jovi’s generosity, noting that he also took the time to engage with students through a Q&A session, signing autographs, and taking pictures.
During his talk with the students, Bon Jovi offered inspiring words: “You are writing the story of your life. You are the future of Sayreville’s dreamers, whether you’re in theater, music, voice, or recording engineering.” He encouraged them to see their time at the school as a stepping stone toward their future dreams, concluding, “Every day is a new chance to create a memory, no matter what path you choose.”
Bon Jovi’s latest album, Forever, was released in June, adding to his legacy both as a musician and as a generous supporter of his community.