Reverend and United States Senator Dr. Raphael Warnock.
Last updated at 6:49 a.m. on Thursday, March 28, 2024
The first Black senator to represent the state of Georgia will be in the territory next week to serve as keynote speaker at a special University of the Virgin Islands convocation on April 3rd, UVI has made known.
“I am honored and excited that Senator [Raphael] Warnock will be the keynote speaker of my last distinguished student convocation as president of this fine University,” said UVI President David Hall. “Senator Warnock has been a champion for equality, social justice, and education throughout his career. He has an impressive background in public service and advocacy, which aligns seamlessly with the university’s commitment to fostering a community of critical thinkers and engaged citizens.”
Mr. Warnock’s history with UVI dates back to 2017, when he invited Dr. Hall to the Ebenezer Baptist Church in the aftermath of hurricanes Irma and Maria to hand over donations of aid to the university. The senior pastor of the historic church that served as the spiritual home of Martin Luther King Jr., also gave the keynote address during UVI’s 2021 commencement ceremony, which was held virtually. He received an honorary doctorate from UVI that year as well.
Mr. Warnock’s remarks for next week is titled “In Search for the Soul of the Nation”, and listeners on April 5 are expected to be inspired, engaged, and encouraged to reflect on the importance of education and civic responsibility.
Dr. Hall says he would like to see as wide an audience as possible for this year’s convocation, his final one as university president. To facilitate access for as many people as possible, UVI will be streaming the ceremony live on their Facebook page and YouTube channel.
