Rider University graduating senior Heather Shankman, of Basking Ridge, was chosen to give the student address at the university's commencement on May 11—and she said she was thankful to be there at all. A general advertising major with a double minor in public relations and sports marketing, it's also an accomplishment that Shankman will graduate on time following a number of severe health complications. Shankman graduated from Ridge High School in 2008. Shankman had a near death experience in 2010 and was on life support for many days, according to information from the college. "It's a …