Howard to Speak at Commencement

Muriel Howard, president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), will be the principal speaker for Lyndon State College's 101st commencement ceremony.

Howard became AASCU president April of 2009. Out of the six presidentially-based higher education associations based in Washington D.C., Howard is the only African American to lead an association and is the first female president of AASCU.

She holds a master's degree in education and a Ph.D. in educational organization, administration, and policy from the University of Buffalo as well as a certificate from the Institute of Educational Management at Harvard University. Howard has also received many awards for her commitment to diversity, contributions to higher education and service to the community.

"Dr. Howard has been a vital advocate for state colleges and universities at the national level and has worked diligently to influence federal policy and regulations," says Steve Gold, LSC interim President, "We will be honored by her presence."

 Joining Howard at commencement are CEO of the Universal Weather and Aviation and Distinguished Alumni Award winner Ralph J. Vasami '82, greeter for the 50th reunion class Stephen M. Long '62, student speaker Rachel Keller and ceremonial reader Allison Poulin.

Public Safety will escort and direct over 220 graduates and their families under the large tent covering the soccer field where the ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. It is expected to be a full house.

The ceremony will be preceded by a "breakfast social" reception for graduates and guests and followed by a "coffee social" in Stannard Gym.