Senior officials from the U.S. Department of Education will deliver commencement addresses this spring and summer around the country. During their remarks, officials will congratulate graduates on their academic accomplishments and highlight the contributions of each institution in ensuring secondary and postsecondary success for students.
The schedule of remarks includes U.S. Under Secretary of Education Ted Mitchell, who will address graduating seniors at Southern New Hampshire University May 14 in Manchester, and the University of California, Davis on June 8. Additionally, General Counsel, Delegated the Duties of Deputy Secretary James Cole Jr. will address graduates at School Without Walls High School, a public magnet high school in Washington D.C. on June 14.
Earlier, James Minor, deputy assistant secretary for higher education programs, delivered the graduate commencement address on April 22 at Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi. And, William Mendoza, director of the White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education, spoke to graduates April 15 at the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute in Albuquerque.
The face of the American student is changing—making access to and completion of higher education all the more important. All students should have the opportunity to pursue a quality, affordable education—regardless of background or circumstance. Education is—and must remain—the “great equalizer,” ensuring that every student has the opportunity to join a thriving middle class.
The Obama Administration remains committed to expanding educational opportunity in partnership with schools, colleges, and universities.
Upcoming commencement events are listed below: