Ayanna Pressley slated to speak at Simmons 2021 commencement ceremony and receive an honorary degree from Simmons.

Pressley, the first woman of color elected to represent to Massachusetts in Congress, will speak at the virtual commencement on May 28 where she will be presented with a Doctor of Laws degree, according to an email from Simmons President Lynn Perry Wooten. 

“Congresswoman Pressley is an activist, a legislator, and a tireless advocate for racial, social, and economic justice,” wrote Wooten in the email. 

Along with Pressley, former Simmons president Helen Drinan, anthropologist and physician Paul Farmer, and award-winning journalist and broadcast sports commentator Suzyn Waldman will all receive honorary degrees. Drinan will be presented with a Doctor of Management degree, Farmer will be presented with a Doctor of Human Rights, and Waldman will be presented with a Doctor of Journalism. 

Pressley was featured in the 2020 virtual commencement as well, giving a one minute video address. 

Pressley represents Massachusetts’ 7th district. Simmons is located in Pressley’s district.