Eboo Patel, founder and president of Interfaith America, a Chicago-based non-profit organization, has been named the keynote speaker for University of Utah’s 2024 general campus-wide commencement.
The decision was jointly revealed by president Taylor Randall and Jack O’Leary, president of the Associated Students of the University of Utah (ASUU).
Patel, who was previously named a University of Utah Impact scholar, is a civic leader dedicated to fostering understanding amidst America’s religious diversity. He is considered apt to address graduating students amid a polarized societal backdrop, the university said in a statement.
President Randall said, “We are very happy to have Eboo Patel serve as our 2024 Commencement speaker. Eboo understands the unique moment we are in and its importance to higher education, and I believe that his message is critical for students to hear.”
Patel, a Rhodes scholar and author, holds a doctorate in the sociology of religion from Oxford University and previously served on President Barack Obama’s Inaugural Faith Council. In his role with Interfaith America, he has advocated for faith as a unifying force and challenged students to embrace leadership amidst societal turbulence.
President Randall praised Patel's ability to navigate challenges and innovate solutions, aligning with the university's commitment to societal impact. The General Commencement is set for Thursday, May 2, at 6 p.m. at the Jon M. Huntsman Center.
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