Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) has announced that Julie Eadeh, U.S. Consul General and an EMU alumna, will deliver the keynote speech at the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremonies. The ceremonies are scheduled for April 27, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in the George Gervin GameAbove Center, Ypsilanti. Nearly 1774 students are eligible to graduate this spring.

"We are honored to welcome Consul General Julie Eadeh back to Eastern Michigan University as our Commencement Speaker," stated EMU President James Smith. "Her career and accomplishments on the global stage inspire our graduates, reinforcing the power of an EMU education to create change and make an impact worldwide."

Julie Eadeh is a member of the U.S. State Department Senior Foreign Service and is currently serving as the United States Consul General in Istanbul, Türkiye, a role she has occupied since 2022. Her diplomatic career, spanning over 20 years, includes missions in Qatar, China, Iraq, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye.

Hailing from Michigan, Eadeh received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University before pursuing a master's degree from Georgetown University. Her global diplomacy and public service career reflect leadership and influence, key values at EMU.

In recognition of her contributions, Eadeh will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree at the commencement.

The commencement will take place in two sessions. The morning session, starting at 9:30 a.m., will include graduates from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Education, and the Individualized Studies Program. The afternoon session at 1:30 p.m. will feature graduates from the Colleges of Business, Engineering and Technology, and Health and Human Services.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is Michigan's second oldest public university. It offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines and is known for its academic excellence, diversity, and applied education focus.

For more information on EMU's commencement ceremonies, visit the EMU Commencement Website. To learn about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.