St. Louis, Mo. – Webster University President Neil J. George announced today that Bob Kerrey, president of The New School in New York City, will deliver Webster University’s 2008 commencement address on May 10. The ceremony will take place at the Edward Jones Dome in downtown St. Louis. Mr. Kerrey will join Webster University degree candidates, faculty, members of the Board of Trustees, honored guests and administrators in the traditional procession that begins at 9:30 a.m. 

“I am pleased to be welcoming Bob Kerrey to our Webster University graduation ceremony,” stated President George. “His dynamic leadership of The New School embodies an extraordinary international vision that encompasses bold and transformational measures destined to prepare students for the universal challenges that lie ahead. On May 10, Webster University graduates will receive a message they will remember for the rest of their lives.” 

Students from Webster’s campuses throughout the U.S., as well as its worldwide campuses, will be at the ceremony. About 10,000 people are expected to attend.

President George also announced that Bob Kerrey will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree at the ceremony.

Since 2001, Bob Kerrey has been president of The New School, a university founded on strong democratic ideals and daring educational practices. Recognized for strengths in design, liberal arts, the social sciences and the visual and performing arts, The New School is undergoing unprecedented growth under Kerrey’s leadership. The university’s graduate program in International Affairs matriculates nearly 300 students each year who come from 34 countries. The school has also launched the India China Institute, a think-tank with major outposts in New York City, Mumbai and Beijing, and the Tishman Environment and Design Center that is dedicated to forward-thinking environmental studies programs. 

Throughout his career in public service, while serving as a governor and U. S. senator from Nebraska during the 1980s and 1990s, Kerrey was a strong supporter of increased education spending, active diplomacy, foreign aid and free trade. Kerrey recognizes that democratic life flourishes most when all citizens are properly educated and given every chance to participate in the political process. In his view, the United States has an obligation to work with the rest of the world to expand opportunities for all people.

Kerrey was a member of many Senate committees and chartered commissions, including the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.  After leaving public office Kerrey served on the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (also known as the 9-11 Commission.)   

Kerrey was educated at the University of Nebraska. He served three years in the United States Navy as a Navy SEAL during the Vietnam War.  Kerrey was wounded in action.  In 1979, Kerrey received the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Webster University (www.webster.edu) is an international, multi-campus university, with its home campus in St. Louis, Missouri.  Founded in 1915, Webster offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through five schools and colleges.  The university has grown into an international network of campuses that includes 108 domestic and international campuses.  The student population of more than 21,000 men and women includes traditional college-age students as well as adult learners, and represents more than 150 nationalities. 

Webster University is a worldwide institution that ensures high-quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. 

###