Southern New Hampshire University celebrated its 83rd commencement Saturday, May 9, 2015, at the SNHU Arena in Manchester, NH. Three ceremonies were held throughout the day for campus, online, Advantage Program and College for America students. Speakers included former Hewlett-Packard CEO and presidential candidate Carly Fiorina, AARP Foundation President Lisa Marsh Ryerson and Bassem Youssef, former host of the popular TV show Al Bernameg. Each speaker received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.
May 9, 2015 | 3,826 Undergraduate | 2,841 Graduate | 3 Doctoral
Carly Fiorina
Former HP CEO and 2016 presidential candidate Carly Fiorina delivered the campus undergraduate commencement address. Fiorina, the first woman to lead a Fortune 50 business, passed on the lessons she’s learned throughout her life to the Class of 2015.
Lisa Marsh Ryerson
The commencement address for online graduate students was delivered by Lisa March Ryerson, president of the AARP Foundation, an organization that helps millions of struggling older adults. During her speech, Ryerson urged graduates to use their education to make a difference in the world.
Bassem Youssef
Bassem Youssef delivered the commencement address for the online undergraduate, Advantage Program and College for America ceremony. Dubbed the “John Stewart of the Arab world,” political satirist Youssef applauded graduates for achieving their goals and refusing to settle.
President’s Undergraduate Address
SNHU President Paul LeBlanc welcomed students, university staff, board members and speakers to the 2015 undergraduate commencement ceremony. Dr. LeBlanc spoke on the growth of the university and the spirit of SNHU and congratulated graduates on their accomplishments.
Kelley McDonough
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Business student Kelley McDonough delivered the campus undergraduate student address. During her speech, McDonough spoke of the world-class education and opportunities she received as an SNHU student.
Debra Stevens
The online undergraduate student address was delivered by Debra Stevens, who earned an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In her address, Stevens speaks about the transformative power of hope and her hopes for the Class of 2015.
Jennifer L. Morris
Master of Science in Community and Mental Health student Jennifer L. Morris delivered the online graduate student address. In her speech, Morris describes overcoming hardships throughout her life and achieving success at SNHU.