Southern Utah University Welcomes Jeffrey R. Holland as 2023 Commencement Speaker

Published: March 16, 2023 | Author: Southern Utah University | Read Time: 2 minutes

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, 2023 commencement speakerElder Jeffrey R. Holland, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints leader and Utah educator, will serve as Southern Utah University’s keynote speaker for the 2023 Commencement ceremony on Friday, April 28, 2023.

"We are delighted to welcome Elder Holland as our commencement speaker this year," said SUU President Mindy Benson. "His southern Utah roots and dedication to education and learning are timely as we wrap up our 125th anniversary year. His address will offer inspiration to our graduates to embrace lifelong learning and give back to their communities as they leave SUU and continue to build their lives."

Elder Holland was ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1994. At the time of this call, he was serving as a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy.

Prior to his full-time service with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Holland served as the ninth president of Brigham Young University, church commissioner of education, and dean of the College of Religious Education at BYU. He also served as president of the American Association of Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities, a board member of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s President's Commission.

For his work in improving understanding between Christians and Jews, he was given the “Torch of Liberty” award by the Anti-Defamation League of B’Nai B’rith. He has served on the governing boards of a number of civic and business-related corporations and is the author of 16 books, two of which he co-authored with his wife, Patricia.

Born and raised in St. George, Utah, Elder Holland was a student leader and varsity athlete in high school and college. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in religious education from BYU, and a master’s and doctor of philosophy degree in American Studies from Yale University.
Along with Elder Holland, SUU President Mindy Benson and a representative from the class of 2023 will speak at the event.

Southern Utah University’s Commencement Ceremony will be held on Friday, April 28, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. in the America First Event Center. The Commencement Ceremony is open to all graduating students and their guests. Tickets are not required, but graduates and their families will be given priority seating.

Visit SUU’s graduation website for a full schedule of events.


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