Media Advisory: San Francisco State University's 110th Commencement May 21

U.S. Ambassador to Australia Jeffrey Bleich to give keynote address

SAN FRANCISCO, May 10, 2011 -- San Francisco State University's Commencement on Saturday May 21, 2010, promises to be an inspiring occasion for more than 8,000 graduates and their guests. The exercises will include speeches by U.S. Ambassador to Australia Jeffrey Bleich and leading Taiwanese educator Flora Chia-I Chang.

• Bleich, one of the nation's top lawyers, former chair of the CSU Board of Trustees and an advocate for human rights, will deliver the keynote address and receive an honorary degree from the California State University
• Chang, President of Tamkang University in Taiwan, will be honored as the Alumna of the Year for her leadership and innovative approach to higher education
• George M. Marcus, a business leader and philanthropist, will receive an honorary degree from the California State University
• Jazz legend Jimmy Cobb will receive the President's Medal in recognition of his work with students and budding jazz artists

WHAT:  Excellent photo opportunity. San Francisco State University's Commencement exercises

WHEN:  Student procession begins at 12:15 p.m.; Ceremony begins at 1 p.m., Saturday, May 21, 2011

WHERE:  Cox Stadium, San Francisco State University, 1600 Holloway (at 19th Avenue), San Francisco.

WHO:  Faculty, friends, parents and purple-clad graduates expected to total more than 20,000.

PLEASE NOTE: Media wishing to attend should register in advance by contacting University Communications, (415) 338-1665.

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