Fisk University, one of the nation’s oldest historically Black universities (HBCUs), is proud to welcome award-winning ABC News correspondent Deborah Roberts, co-anchor of the prestigious news magazine, “20/20.” and Al Roker, weather and feature anchor of NBC News’ TODAY, as co-speakers for the university’s historic 150th commencement ceremony on Monday, May 6th, 2024.
As a seasoned media veteran, Roberts has explored the world in pursuit of her reporting. Her thorough coverage of current events led to her receiving a prestigious Peabody Award for the “20/20” special “Say Her Name: Breonna Taylor.” With multiple Emmy® Awards to her name, she has been honored for her exceptional contributions to international and national news coverage. Beyond her journalism career, Roberts is also an accomplished author. Her book, “Lessons Learned and Cherished: The Teacher Who Changed My Life,” achieved bestseller status on the New York Times list. Additionally, she and husband Al co-authored a book, titled “Been There, Done That: Family Wisdom For Modern Times.”
Roker, a familiar presence in households nationwide for over four decades, is a co-host of The Third Hour of TODAY, a respected journalist, author, television personality, and renowned meteorologist. Notably, he is a recipient of the American Meteorological Society’s prestigious Seal of Approval and has been a trailblazer in integrating computer graphics into weathercasting. Roker’s unwavering dedication to his field, coupled with his engaging persona, has cemented him as a trusted source of information for millions.
Dr. Agenia Clark, President of Fisk University, has fostered a longstanding relationship with both Roker and Roberts.
“Deborah and Al are much more than just media icons,” says Dr. Clark. “They are now cherished friends of Fisk University, and their dedication to excellence and social responsibility mirrors our core values. We are incredibly grateful for their willingness to inspire our graduating class of future leaders as they embark on their journeys.”
To learn more about Fisk University’s 150th commencement ceremony and the exciting achievements of their graduating class, please visit their website at Fisk.edu.
Fisk University is a highly ranked historically Black university, according to U.S. News and World Report, and is the oldest institution of higher learning in Nashville, Tennessee. Fisk’s outstanding faculty and students continue to enhance the University’s international reputation for academic excellence. Fisk’s scholars continue to make strides in all areas of the industry from Social Justice to the sciences. A Fisk education prepares students to become beacons in servicing the community and well-rounded leaders and scholars in their respective fields. Fisk offers more than 20+ undergraduate and graduate programs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Clinical Psychology with a bridge Masters to Ph.D. program through a partnership with Vanderbilt University. For more information, visit Fisk.edu.
