Reviving Tradition: Drexel University Reintroduces Alumni Commencement Celebrations After Decades

This year, Drexel University is excited to have alumnus Justin Best as the speaker for its Class of 2025 commencement. A gold medalist and investment banker, Best is a part of a select group of Drexel alumni who have spoken at large graduation ceremonies since 2016. This marks the 138th Commencement for the university, a tradition rich with notable figures.

In the last 80 years, around two dozen alumni have addressed Drexel graduates. This has evolved over time; graduates now experience one unified ceremony alongside individual college events. Many of these speakers have received honorary degrees and have left a significant mark on their fields, contributing to education and society in remarkable ways.

Some notable past speakers include:

• H.P. Liversidge (1947): The former president of Philadelphia Electric Company was the first alumnus to serve on Drexel’s Board of Trustees.
• James Bagian (1987): This NASA astronaut logged over 331 hours in space and has ties to the Drexel community through family.
• Paul Baran (1997): Credited with developing packet-switching technology that laid the groundwork for the Internet.
• Sandra Schultz Newman (2001): The first woman elected to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, exemplifying leadership breaking barriers in the legal field.
• Malik Rose (2009): An NBA champion and first Drexel player to be drafted, now contributes to the NBA G League.

Best is poised to inspire the next generation of students, following in the footsteps of these influential figures. With over 1,500 Drexel graduates expected this year, his message will serve as a beacon for their futures.

Overall, the histories linked to Drexel’s commencement speakers not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the university’s commitment to fostering a strong community of leaders. As societal needs evolve, so do the stories of these alumni, bridging past accomplishments with current challenges.

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