The Honorable Raphael G. Warnock to Deliver Keynote Address at Virginia Union University’s 2025 Commencement

April 10, 2025

Richmond, VA — Virginia Union University is proud to announce that the Honorable Raphael G. Warnock, United States Senator from Georgia and Senior Pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Commencement Ceremony. A towering figure in faith, public service, and social justice, Senator Warnock will also be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree during the ceremony in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and lifelong commitment to equity, education, and empowerment.

“Senator Rev. Dr. Raphael Warnock represents the very essence of servant leadership,” said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, President and CEO of Virginia Union University. “His life’s work bridges the sacred and the civic, the pulpit and the Senate floor. We are honored to welcome him to VUU to inspire the next generation of leaders as they step boldly into their future.”

A son of Savannah, Georgia, and the eleventh of twelve children, Senator Warnock has become a national voice for justice, compassion, and the power of the Black church tradition. He made history in 2021 when he was elected Georgia’s first Black U.S. Senator — a seat he continues to hold while pastoring the spiritual home of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The 2025 Commencement Ceremony will be a historic celebration for Virginia Union University, as we honor the achievements of our graduates and bear witness to an address from one of the most influential voices of our time.

Commencement will be held at 9 AM on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Hovey Field on the campus of Virginia Union University.

This momentous occasion promises to be a highlight in VUU’s legacy of producing leaders who “believe, achieve, and serve.”

Stay tuned for more details and media coverage opportunities.

Contact: RaShon Young
Director of Communications