by Writing by Design Media, Inc. Staff
On May 13, LeMoyne-Owen College (LOC) will hold its 153rd Commencement Program at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church located at 620 Parkrose Road in Southwest Memphis. The start time is 10:00 a.m.
LOC is the only historically Black college and university (HBCU) in Memphis, Tenn. in the heart of South Memphis. It is located near the legendary Four Way Restaurant on Walker Ave. and Mississippi Blvd.
The keynote speaker is Nzinga 'Zing' Shaw, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer of the GRAMMYs (R). According to a news release, "Shaw joined the global company in 2023 and leads its DEI Center of Excellence, focused to enable a more engaged global workforce, creating enhanced platforms to recognize the diverse array of artists and music professionals."
Shaw also served as the first chief inclusion and diversity officer for Starbucks and National Basketball Association representing the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena franchise according to the news release. She graduated from Spelman College with a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
"As our Magicians embark on a new chapter of their lives, we're proud to have such a dynamic global leader and HBCU alumnae as Ms. Shaw to impart wisdom and inspiration for their days ahead," said Dr. Vernell Bennett-Fairs, LOC president.
This year's valedictorian is Michael W. Zhou. He is an international student from Zimbabwe graduating with a bachelor's degree in computer science and his minor is business administration. Zhou also received an athletic scholarship in tennis and was socially involved around campus.
To learn about LeMoyne-Owen College, visit loc.edu.