Contact: Nancy Bercaw [email protected]
UVM ANNOUNCES 1999 COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER
The University of Vermont has announced that Dr. John Hope Franklin, professor emeritus of history at Duke University and the University of Chicago, will give the commencement address to the graduating class of 1999 on Sunday, May 23. He will receive an honorary degree from UVM during the ceremonies.
Franklin received his doctorate from Harvard University and has taught at a number of institutions including Fisk University, Howard University and Brooklyn College. A recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995, Franklin is the author of 12 books about race and history, including "From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African Americans," now in its seventh edition. In addition to his work on a number of national commissions and delegations, Franklin currently serves as chairman of the advisory board for One America: The President's Initiative on Race.
President Judith Ramaley believes Franklin is an ideal speaker to help UVM usher in the new millennium. "He has worked on behalf of justice and equity throughout his career and his wisdom and insight will offer us valuable guidance," she said. "He is a man of integrity and courage and a fine scholar."
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