February 21, 2017

Duckworth to Deliver George Washington University Commencement Address on National Mall

 

WASHINGTON, DC - On Sunday May 21st, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) will deliver the George Washington University (GW) commencement address in a ceremony on the National Mall. Duckworth graduated from GW in 1992 with a Master of Arts degree in international affairs.

"I went to GW in part because of its outstanding record educating students in international relations, something that is as relevant and important today as it has ever been," said Senator Duckworth. "GW helped me build a foundation for everything I've done since graduating, whether in the military, at the Department of Veterans Affairs or-now-in the Senate. I'm so grateful for the opportunities that I've had and the role my alma mater played in them, but I never anticipated giving the commencement address being one of them. I'm humbled by this invitation and look forward to encouraging my fellow alums to go out and make a difference in the world."

"Senator Duckworth is one of the George Washington University's most distinguished alumni," said George Washington University President Steven Knapp. "From her military service to her tireless advocacy on behalf of veterans, women and families, Sen. Duckworth has dedicated her life to serving her country. She embodies a spirit of service and sacrifice that has inspired our many GW veterans and our university as a whole."

Senator Duckworth earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Hawaii and earned a Master of Arts degree in international affairs from the George Washington University. Since her graduation from GW, she has been an active member of the university community. In 2014, she received GW's distinguished alumni achievement award and in 2009 received the university's inaugural Colin Powell Public Service Award. She most recently served on the host committee for GW's annual Capitol Hill Alumni reception held in January.

Previous GW Commencement speakers include Apple CEO Tim Cook, award-winning actress and alumna Kerry Washington, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, former First Lady Michelle Obama, former President George H.W. Bush and former First Lady Barbara Bush, then-First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton and world-renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés.

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