Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski to Deliver Commencement Address for Class of 2023

Press Releases

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and the Blackburn College seal
By Office of Marketing & Public Relations
On April 20, 2023

Blackburn College is proud to announce that U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) will serve as the keynote speaker for the 154th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 13.  

Representing Illinois’ 13th Congressional District, Congresswoman Budzinski was first elected to the House in 2022. With a background in the labor movement as well as in state and federal government, her mission is to restore the American Dream, rebuild the middle class, and deliver results for communities in Central and Southern Illinois. She currently serves on the House Agriculture Committee and House Committee on Veterans Affairs.

“We are delighted to welcome Congresswoman Budzinski as we celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2023,” said Blackburn President Gregory J. Meyer. “She is deeply committed to public service, dedicated to delivering results for the communities she serves, and truly understands the importance of higher education. As someone just beginning her journey as a newly-elected Member of Congress, she is also in a perfect position to offer advice and inspiration to our graduates as they embark on bright and promising futures.”  

The 2023 Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for 10:30 AM on Saturday, May 13, in the Hudson Quad on the Carlinville, Ill. campus. More information on Blackburn College’s 154th Commencement activities can be found on Blackburn’s Graduation page.