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MEDIA ADVISORY: Radford University Spring Commencement Ceremonies to take place Friday and Saturday

by Justin Ward

Radford, VA (05/02/2024) — Radford University will celebrate spring commencement with ceremonies May 3 and 4. The Graduate Commencement and Hooding Ceremony for students receiving master's and doctoral degrees begins at 5 p.m. Friday, May 3, in the Dedmon Center, 101 University Drive, Radford, VA. The ceremony includes students from all graduate programs at Radford University main campus, Radford University at Carilion, Roanoke Higher Education Center and Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.

The undergraduate graduation ceremony is set to begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, at Moffett Lawn on the Radford University main campus. This year the university will host two commencement speakers, each delivering a keynote address for the two ceremonies.

Mark Pace '92, the undergraduate keynote speaker, is an esteemed figure in Virginia's business landscape, epitomizing the values of legacy and community stewardship. As the president and owner of E.C. Pace Co. Inc., a longstanding family business in heavy highway utility construction, Pace has upheld a tradition of excellence spanning four generations. His commitment to community involvement is evident through his leadership roles on various boards, including the Virginia Business Higher Education Council and Carilion Clinic. Pace's deep connection to Radford University, both as an alumnus and as a former member of the Board of Visitors, reflects his enduring dedication to fostering growth and opportunity in higher education. Anchored by a loving family and guided by a Highlander blend of professional acumen, community commitment, and personal fulfillment, Pace serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of undergraduate leaders.

As the graduate keynote speaker, Amanda Cox, MBA '21, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Cox has navigated the intricate landscape of local and county governmental affairs, championing economic development and community relations as an external affairs manager for Appalachian Power Co. Her leadership at the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce earned the organization a prestigious five-star rating from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. With a solid educational foundation in business administration from Ferrum College and an MBA from Radford University, Cox embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and professional growth. Her commitment to serving on multiple state, regional, and local boards underscores her dedication to making a positive impact in her community, all while balancing a fulfilling family life in Franklin County, Virginia.

Find more details on Radford University's spring ceremonies on the commencement website.

Radford University is a comprehensive public university that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Well known for its strong faculty/student bonds, innovative use of technology in the learning environment and vibrant student life on a beautiful 211-acre American classical campus, Radford University offers students many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. With over 300 clubs and organizations, Radford University offers many opportunities for student engagement, leadership development and community service. In addition to robust academic offerings and engaging student experiences on the main campus located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University also offers a clinical-based educational experience for some 1,000 students living and learning in Roanoke, Virginia as part of Radford University Carilion, a public-private partnership focused on the cutting-edge delivery of health sciences programming, outreach and service.

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