Virginia Union University recently announced U.S. Sen. Raphael G. Warnock will deliver the keynote address at its 2025 commencement ceremony. The event will take place 9 a.m., Saturday, May 10, at Hovey Field on the university’s campus. In addition to his address, Warnock will be awarded an honorary doctor of laws degree in recognition of his leadership in public service, advocacy for social justice,and commitment to education and equity.

Sen. Warnock, who was elected Georgia’s first Black U.S. senator in 2021, also is the senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. His work spans both public service and faith leadership, with national recognition for his efforts in areas such as racial justice and voting rights.

“We are excited to have him join us to inspire our graduates as they embark on their next chapter,” said Hakim J. Lucas, president of Virginia Union University.

In other commencement news, Virginia State University also announced its keynote speakers for the spring graduation ceremonies. Virginia Speaker of the House Don Scott and Virginia Sen. Louise Lucas will address graduates at two separate ceremonies on May 17 at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center.

Scott, the first African American to serve as speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, will deliver his address at the morning ceremony, starting at 8:30 a.m. This ceremony will honor graduates from the College of Education and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Scott has represented the 88th District since 2020 and is a former naval officer and attorney.

Sen. Louise Lucas will speak at the afternoon ceremony, which will begin at 1:30 p.m. Lucas has served in the Virginia Senate since 1992 and is the first African American woman to chair the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee.

Meanwhile, Norfolk State University has announced that its 2025 commencement ceremony will take place Saturday, May 10, at 9 a.m. in William “Dick” Price Stadium, where more than 600 graduates are expected to receive their diplomas. The keynote speaker will be actress, producer, activist and author Sheryl Lee Ralph.

Ralph, a cast member of ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” has received numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award and Critics’ Choice Award for supporting actress in a comedy series. Her career includes a Tony Award nomination for “Dreamgirls” and roles in television and film such as “Moesha,” “Sister Act 2” and “Ray Donovan.” Ralph also is known for her advocacy work in public health and LGBTQ+ rights through her nonprofit, the D.I.V.A. Foundation.