Stacey Abrams, Democratic candidate for Governor, to give commencement address at Spelman College

Spelman College officials announced last week that alum and gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams will deliver the key-note address during the commencement celebration on Sunday, May 15, 2022. The private, historically Black college for women will also give Abrams a national community service award. 

This year’s graduating class will include five valedictorians, a salutatorian, and several high-achieving graduates from across the country. 

Abrams graduated magna cum laude from Spelman College in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. 

 Said the school’s President, Mary Schmidt Campbell, “Spelman College is fortunate to have a dynamic leader such as Stacey Abrams as an alumna. Her work has had a tremendous impact on our state and country and the African American community.” 

Campbell said Abrams is an example to Spelman students of how to “lead effectively while navigating complex issues, like voting rights, equity, and civil rights. We look forward to all that Abrams will share with the class of 2022.” 

Abrams kept close ties with the college and has spoken to students several times about the importance of voting. 

Spelman created a scholarship last year in her honor for students with financial needs.

Abrams’ appearance could be important politically. More than 90% of Black women voters in Georgia cast their ballots for Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election, helping him carry the state.