Senator Markey to receive Chancellor's Medal and offer Keynote Address at May 15 Commencement combined ceremony
United States Senator Edward J. Markey, a consumer champion and national leader on energy, environmental protection and telecommunications policy, will receive the Chancellor's Medal and deliver the keynote address at UMass Dartmouth's May 15 Commencement Exercises for graduates of the College of Engineering, College of Nursing, College of Visual & Performing Arts, and School of Marine Science & Technology.
"We are honored to have one of our nation's most prominent leaders on issues that will affect future generations address the Class of 2015," said UMass Dartmouth Chancellor Divina Grossman. "Senator Markey has spent more than three decades proudly representing Massachusetts citizens. He has been an especially powerful advocate issues related to climate change, a concern for all of us but especially for the young people in the Class of 2015."
"I am deeply honored to receive the Chancellor's Medal, and I look forward to addressing the students, faculty and families of UMass Dartmouth at the commencement exercises for graduates of the College of Engineering, College of Nursing, College of Visual & Performing Arts, and School of Marine Science & Technology. UMass Dartmouth is the embodiment of the quest for knowledge and excellence, and I am honored to join this remarkable campus as it celebrates the achievements of the class of 2015," said Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.).
Senator Markey has a prolific legislative record on major issues across the policy spectrum and a deep commitment to improving the lives of the people of Massachusetts and the United States. On the issues of climate change, clean energy, safeguarding privacy, nuclear non-proliferation, investor protection or preserving an open Internet that spurs competition and consumer choice, Senator Markey stands up for the priorities and values of Massachusetts. While serving for 37 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, Senator Markey fought for his constituents throughout his Congressional District. As Dean of the Massachusetts delegation in the House, he worked to harness the energy and influence of his colleagues on behalf of the entire Commonwealth. Elected to the Senate in a special election in June 2013, Senator Markey is bringing his experience, energy and expertise to advocate for all the people of Massachusetts.
The Chancellor's Medal, awarded at the sole discretion of the Chancellor, recognizes individuals and organizations whose contributions to society represent the core values of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth -- lifelong learning, innovative research, and civic engagement.
The University recently announced that national legal analyst and best-selling author Rikki Klieman will address the UMass Law Class of 2015 at the May 18 Commencement. Former UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits CEO and UMass Dartmouth Alumna Diane Desmarais Souza '79 will receive an honorary degree and deliver the keynote address at UMass Dartmouth's Charlton College of Business May 15 Commencement ceremony. Dr. Carlos Eire, author of the National Book Award-winning Waiting for Snow in Havana, will receive an honorary degree and offer the keynote address to UMass Dartmouth College of Arts & Sciences Class of 2015 at the May 16 Commencement ceremony.
UMass Dartmouth distinguishes itself as a vibrant, public research university dedicated to engaged learning and innovative research resulting in personal and lifelong student success. The University serves as an intellectual catalyst for economic, social, and cultural transformation on a global, national, and regional scale.