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Share thisRoberts Wesleyan University’s 2024 Commencement Set for May 11
Richard Y. Newton III, lieutenant general, U.S. Air Force (ret.), named commencement speaker
Roberts Wesleyan University will celebrate commencement on Saturday, May 11, awarding 471 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to the 2024 graduating class. Six students from Roberts Wesleyan’s Bridge to Earning, Learning and Living (BELL) program, an inclusive postsecondary certificate program for students age 18-26 with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will also walk the stage during the traditional undergraduate ceremony.
President Rupert A. Hayles Jr. will deliver his first Roberts Wesleyan University commencement address as the school welcomes family members, friends, faculty and staff to attend two in-person ceremonies in the Voller Athletic Center on campus. Guests unable to attend the ceremonies in person will be able to view a broadcast of each commencement ceremony online.
“Roberts graduates are well-equipped with character, competence and creative problem-solving ideas,” Hayles said. “I am excited for their next season of growth, wherever they go. With Christ as their foundation, they will be leaders and influencers amid the tensions and issues of our world today. They join a vast alumni network who are making a positive impact by promoting the flourishing of people and communities throughout the world.”
Richard Y. Newton III, retired lieutenant general of the U.S. Air Force, is this year’s guest commencement speaker. During his 34-year U.S. military career, Newton successfully led thousands of men and women during peacetime and times of crisis, culminating his years of service in the role of United States Air Force assistant vice chief of staff. Now retired from active service, he serves as managing partner at Pioneer Partnership Development Group, a consulting firm in the retail and defense industry sectors, and as chief operating officer of BenchMark5 Management Consulting firm. Newton is also a founding partner of Legends Advocates Sports Group, a consortium that provides fiduciary consultation to pro athletes, supporting their long-term financial goals and community investment strategies during and beyond their sports careers.
Richard Y. Newton III
More details about the ceremonies, including how to tune in virtually, are available on the 2024 commencement page. For more information about Roberts Wesleyan University, visit roberts.edu.
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