HUNTINGTON, WEST VIRGINIA (April 9, 2025) — Marshall University is proud to announce that long-time broadcast journalist, author and philanthropist Soledad O’Brien will deliver the university’s keynote address for the 2025 graduation ceremonies scheduled for 9AM and 2PM, Saturday, May 10, at the Marshall Health Network Arena.
O’Brien is widely recognized for her work with CNN, NBC, HBO, and PBS, among other prestigious entities. She has reported on major events, including natural disasters, political upheavals, and community movements, earning multiple awards for her compelling storytelling. Her work has recently included highlighting Marshall University’s Marshall for All: Debt-Free program on her acclaimed series, Matter of Fact, and she has appeared at Huntington’s Women Warriors Summit, founded by Marshall First Lady Alys Smith. O’Brien’s philanthropic efforts encompass initiatives with both The Starfish Foundation and The PowHERful Foundation.
O’Brien will deliver remarks to Marshall’s 2025 graduates, and she will be presented with an honorary degree by the university.
“It is an honor to have Soledad O’Brien joining us for commencement this year,” said Marshall University President Brad D Smith. “She has an exceptional way of connecting with audiences and possesses a genuine and inspired understanding of our campus and our community. I know we will be entertained, educated and empowered by her remarks. We are very grateful that she accepted our invitation.”
Approximately 1,500 students are expected to graduate at two separate ceremonies.
The schedule is as follows:
9AM ceremony
Lewis College of Business undergraduate and graduate students
Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice candidates
Doctor of Business Administration candidates
College of Education & Professional Development undergraduate and graduate students
Doctor of Education candidates
College of Science undergraduate and graduate students
Physician’s Assistant candidates
College of Engineering and Computer Sciences undergraduate and graduate students
Division of Aviation undergraduate students
2PM ceremony
College of Health Professions undergraduate and graduate students
Doctor of Physical Therapy candidates
Doctor of Nursing Practice candidates
School of Pharmacy Graduate Program candidates
Doctor of Pharmacy candidates
College of Liberal Arts undergraduate and graduate students
College of Arts and Media undergraduate and graduate students
Regents Bachelor of Arts undergraduate students
The Marshall Health Network Arena has security procedures in place including metal-detector screening and visual bag inspections. It is a clear bag only venue. For more information about parking, security, and other commencement details, visit marshall.edu/commencement.
For those not able to attend in person, a livestream of the ceremony will be available at marshall.edu/livestream.
