Graduation is always an exciting time for our students and for the University. I would like to congratulate all of our graduates who worked so hard to achieve their goal of earning a college diploma. As we know, the families and friends of our students offer so much support, and we were thrilled to have so many of our students’ loved ones join us, so we could acknowledge and thank them for their support throughout this journey.
Dr. Michael R. Cunningham, Chancellor of the National University System and John F. Kennedy University President, Ms. Debra Bean, with keynote speaker Debi Hemmeter of Lean In.
Chancellor Cunningham presents the President’s Medallion to John F. Kennedy University President, Ms. Debra Bean.
At John F. Kennedy University’s commencement ceremonies, more than 200 students received their degrees, joining more than 16,000 distinguished alumni who have gone before them during the past 52 years of the University’s history. I was excited to attend this year’s 51st commencement ceremony at the Paramount Theater in Oakland, where keynote speaker, Debi Hemmeter, Co-founder & Director of Partnerships at Lean In shared her inspirational message with our graduates. I was fortunate to spend time with Ms. Hemmeter and her daughter prior to the graduation ceremony, and it was an honor to learn more about her journey and her incredible accomplishments with four Fortune 50 companies, in addition to all of her public service contributions.
Graduates and their loved ones attend John F. Kennedy University Commencement on June 18, 2016 at the Paramount Theater in Oakland, CA.
At John F. Kennedy University and the National University System, we believe that it’s not just the degree but the degree to which you use it. At John F. Kennedy University, we have a profound dedication to serving the community, which is why I was honored to present the President’s Medallion to Ms. Debra Bean, the eighth president and first female president of John F. Kennedy University. With her tremendous leadership, President Bean is a perfect example of serving the greater.
I am proud to be a part of the National University System, where our network of complementary universities offers pathways for students to attain professional and terminal degrees through quality and innovative programs. I’d like to thank the dedicated faculty and staff at John F. Kennedy University who work hard to bring quality education programs to our students.