VSU alumnus to deliver commencement address
4/27/2023, 6 p.m.
Virginia State University announced this year’s spring com- mencement speaker will be Stockton, Calif., city manager and former City of Richmond official Harry Black.
Mr. Black, a VCU alumnus, served in several executive postings, including as chief financial officer for the City of Richmond from 2005 to 2008. He has published and presented in subjects such as community and economic development, pension and health care reform, performance management, data analytics and long-range public financial planning.
In addition to his bachelor’s degree from VSU, Mr. Black also earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Virginia, and was honored by VSU with a doctor of humane letters. He has received VSU’s Presidential Medal and the John Mercer Langston Award from the VSU Alumni Association.
“Mr. Black has a proven track record of being a tremendous leader,” VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah said in the announcement. “His history as a leader, innovator and changemaker has provided him with a great deal of wisdom. We are proud to welcome him home to Virginia State University to share that wisdom with our graduating Trojans.”
More than 550 graduates will receive their degrees during the Virginia State University commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 13, at 9 a.m. in the VSU Multi-Purpose Center. The ceremony will be livestreamed at vsu.edu.
