NY Times columnist to keynote Harper graduation

New York Times Op-Ed columnist and frequent TV and radio commentator David Brooks will address Harper graduates at the graduation and commencement ceremony at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 20.

Brooks, noted for his frank, insightful and sometimes humorous observations on political, social and cultural events and trends, is the author of several books and a frequent guest on "The Newshour with Jim Lehrer," NPR's "All Things Considered" and the "Diane Rehm Show."

He will receive an honorary degree from Harper and speak to what's expected to be a near capacity crowd.

For the second year in a row Harper will graduate a record number of students. In the latest count, 4,232 students - 399 more than last year's record number - will earn an associate degree or certificate from Harper in the 2011-2012 academic year.

The increased number of graduates is the result of a collegewide effort to increase the number of students who complete degree or certificate requirements

"Too many students leave community colleges without completing a degree or certificate or transferring to a four-year university," said Harper College President Dr. Kenneth L. Ender. "If the U.S. is to successfully compete in a 21st century global economy, we must get more college students to the finish line."

Harper College's commencement ceremony will be held on the quad on Harper's main campus, 1200 W. Algonquin Road in Palatine. The event is free and open to the public.