By Andi Anderson
Michigan State University will celebrate its fall commencement with four distinguished speakers whose achievements reflect leadership, innovation and a strong commitment to public service.
These speakers come from diverse fields, including public health, biotechnology, higher education and equity advocacy, offering graduates meaningful messages as they begin the next stage of their lives.
MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz emphasized the importance of these leaders, stating, “Each of these distinguished leaders exemplifies dedication to discovery, education and public service. Their achievements and stories provide our graduates with a roadmap for perseverance, innovation and lifelong curiosity as they chart their own paths forward.”
The ceremonies begin on Friday, December 12, when Joan Rose, Ph.D., will address advanced degree graduates. Rose is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking work in water microbiology and public health. Her research has improved wastewater treatment and contributed to safer water systems around the world.
On Saturday, December 13, at the 9 a.m. ceremony, Lee June, Ph.D., will speak to graduates in the arts, humanities, education, social sciences and related colleges.
June has served MSU for more than 50 years, guiding discussions in multicultural and spiritual psychology, mentoring students and advancing equity and inclusion through leadership roles.
At the noon ceremony, accomplished MSU alumnus Kevin Conroy will address graduates from engineering, natural sciences and Lyman Briggs. As CEO and chairman of Exact Sciences, Conroy has led major advancements in cancer diagnostics, including the widely known Cologuard test, and helped drive innovation in biotechnology and health care.
The final ceremony at 3 p.m. will feature Kim Wilcox, Ph.D., former MSU provost and retired chancellor of the University of California, Riverside. Wilcox’s leadership has supported student success, increased research funding and guided transformational academic initiatives at multiple institutions.
All ceremonies will take place at the Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing. Events will be livestreamed, and viewers can follow updates using #SpartanGrad25.
Safety policies include transparent bags only, permitted cameras, and prohibited items such as noisemakers, signs, pets and weapons. Breslin Center also operates as a smoke-free facility, and metal detectors will screen all guests.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education