DAYTONA BEACH – On Saturday, May 4, Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) will host global impact leader Ivy McGregor as the Spring 2024 Commencement speaker. She will also be presented with an honorary doctorate degree.
Ms. McGregor currently serves as Executive Director of BeyGOOD Foundation, the public charity founded by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. She is one of the most respected voices in Generation NOW philanthropy, spearheading strategies deeply rooted in driving economic equity, eradicating homelessness and empowering female entrepreneurship. Ms. McGregor has earned numerous accolades and awards, including the International Distinguished Humanitarian Leadership Award, presented at the United Nations by the United States National Council for Women.
“We’re honored to have Ivy McGregor join us as we celebrate our 120th anniversary,” said Dr. William Berry, acting president and provost at B-CU. “Her commitment to bold innovation and strategic partnerships echoes the spirit of our beloved founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. Ms. McGregor’s words will inspire our graduates to strive for excellence as they ‘depart to serve’ a more equitable future.”
Nearly 350 graduates will walk across the stage at the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center in Daytona Beach to receive their degrees. This is the largest graduating class (347 students) at Bethune-Cookman since the pandemic.
The ceremony will be streamed live through the university’s YouTube channel.
About Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) – Now in its 120th year, Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is a historically-Black university in Daytona Beach, Fla., founded by civil and human rights activist Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in 1904 as the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls. With deep roots in the history of America, B-CU is a United Methodist-related, private institution largely focused on liberal arts programs to meet students’ diverse educational, social and cultural needs. The university is home to the nation’s #2 HBCU Nursing Program, a world-renowned marching band known as “The Pride,” and is a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
