Jonathan Kaplan, J.D.
President, Walden University
At this time, I ask Paula Singer, Chair of the Board, and the Honorable Richard W. Riley to join me at the podium.
Richard W. Riley has focused on improving education for nearly 30 years, including as governor of South Carolina from 1979 to 1987 and then nationwide when President Clinton selected him to head the U.S. Department of Education, which he led from 1993 to 2001. As the nation’s top education administrator over the course of two terms, Secretary Riley helped launch historic initiatives to raise academic standards in all 50 states, improve instruction for the poor and disadvantaged, and expand grant and loan programs to help more Americans pursue higher education.
Throughout his career, he has been a visionary leader and an ambassador for improving education in the United States and around the world.
To honor Secretary Riley, Walden University has renamed its College of Education for him, now known as The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership at Walden University. It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?
Director Singer, on behalf of Walden University, I nominate Richard W. Riley—an esteemed leader with an outstanding legacy of improving access to education and a tireless commitment to all students—for the honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa.
Paula Singer, B.S.
Chair, Walden University Board of Directors
In honor of his professional achievements in higher education and dedication to improving education in the United States and abroad, Walden University proudly confers upon you the degree Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa, with all of its rights and privileges. Congratulations.