Schwarzenegger named Emory's commencement speaker

By Laura Diamond

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will deliver the keynote address at Emory University's commencement, university officials announced Friday.

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RON T. ENNIS, MCT Calif. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger will give commencement address at Emory.

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The famous athlete and actor will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree during the May 10 ceremony.

“Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s achievements in athletics, film and politics have made him a household name throughout America and the world," Emory President James Wagner said in a statement. "His career in public service and his commitments to inner-city youth and sustainable energy resonate with the strategic vision of Emory University. The governor’s rise from modest circumstances through hard work and study offers an exemplary ethic for graduating seniors.”

Emory will award four other honorary degrees during the ceremony, including a doctor of divinity degree to the Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery and a doctor of letters degree to local author Melissa Fay Greene.