Dear University Community,
As a University, we are in the business of preparing students for bright futures. But living a successful life is about much more than professional accomplishment or lucrative salaries. It’s also about living a good life—one that is characterized by joy, positivity, and love for God and neighbor. That is the mission of a specifically Catholic University.
It’s only fitting that our keynote Commencement speaker this year is Arthur C. Brooks. A New York Times bestselling author, columnist at The Atlantic, Ph.D. social scientist, and "happiness expert,” Brooks will encourage our graduates to find purpose, happiness, and joy throughout their lives.
I also would like to announce that we will be bestowing honorary degrees on Brooks as well as these other distinguished individuals: Thaddeus F. Aubry, B.A. 1966, Founding Director, Partnership Program; Leon A. LeBuffe, B.A. 1966, Ph.D. 1974, Co-Founder, Partnership Program; Marguerite (Peg) Harmon, long-time Director, Catholic Community Services of Southern Arizona; and Kathryn Jean Lopez, B.A. 1997, Journalist.
We will be sending a press release out soon, but I wanted to share this information first with the University community. A copy of the press release is below my signature.
I am looking forward to May 13 and celebrating with all of you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Peter K. Kilpatrick
President of The Catholic University of America