Framingham State is pleased to announce that Massachusetts Congresswoman Katherine Clark will deliver the commencement address to Framingham State University's Class of 2021 during a virtual ceremony on Sunday, May 23^rd.

"We are fortunate to be represented by a Congresswoman who shares our students' passion for issues such as social justice, protecting our environment, supporting public education, and helping working families," says Framingham State University President F. Javier Cevallos. "We are honored that Congresswoman Clark has accepted our invitation."

Congresswoman Clark was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2013 and has quickly risen to the rank of "Assistant Speaker," the fourth ranking post in the House leadership. She represents the Massachusetts 5^th Congressional District, which includes the City of Framingham. During the ceremony, Framingham State will present Congresswoman Clark with an honorary doctoral degree in Public Service.

FSU will also present English Professor Halcyon Mancuso with the President's Medal, which is the highest honor awarded by the Office of the President. In 2017, Dr. Mancuso created The Mancuso English, Humanities, and Social & Behavioral Sciences Scholarships through a generous donation to the University. Mancuso Scholars receive support for 100% of Day Division tuition, fees, and room and board for up to four years. More recently, Dr. Mancuso helped establish the Mancuso Humanities Workforce Preparation Center to help ensure that FSU humanities majors are prepared for rewarding employment upon graduation.

Framingham State University will celebrate both the Class of 2020 and Class of 2021 in two separate ceremonies on May 23^rd. Lyndia Downey, the President and Executive Director of the Pine Street Inn, will deliver the commencement address to the Class of 2020. She was selected as the speaker last winter, but the ceremony was postponed due to the outbreak of COVID19.

"Under Lyndia Downie's leadership, no organization has done more to assist the most vulnerable population in Greater Boston," says Cevallos. "Though it comes a year later than we expected, we are honored to have her address our graduating Class of 2020. I'm certain she will leave them inspired to head out into the world and do good for others."