Acclaimed Actor to Address Students as They Take Center Stage at Graduation Ceremony in Chicago

American InterContinental University (AIU) graduates and their families can look forward to words of wisdom and encouragement from noted actor Blair Underwood when he delivers their commencement address this summer. Sharing insights on how his own education influenced his life and noteworthy career, Underwood will impart his experiences to inspire students at the AIU Online graduation ceremony in Chicago on Aug. 8, 2015.

Best known for his role as attorney Jonathan Rollins on the NBC legal drama “L.A. Law” and recurring role in HBO’s “Sex in the City,” Underwood was selected as AIU’s commencement speaker not only for his own achievements but for the example he sets for the graduates as a professional and humanitarian. His words and work will encourage AIU graduates to take advantage of their education in shaping their futures and remind them to always stay motivated to pursue their personal and professional goals.

“Graduation at AIU is a celebration of each student’s personal accomplishments, recognizing their completion of academic programs that will prepare them for future success at a pivotal point in their lives,” said Dr. George Miller, President of AIU. “Blair Underwood’s own accomplishments and journey to success will undoubtedly inspire students to pursue their dreams as they move forward to their next chapter.”

Underwood, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, served as an “Artist in Residence” at Harvard University in 2009 and also was awarded an honorary doctorate from Emerson College in Boston. Currently, he plays Dr. Andrew Garner on ABC’s “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” The two-time Golden Globe nominee and seven-time winner of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Image Award also recently starred in NBC dramas “Ironside” and “The Event.”

“This past year has marked such exciting changes in my own career, and there is no better feeling than knowing all of your dedication and hard work is paying off,” Underwood said. “As AIU students take to the stage for their commencement ceremony, I hope to inspire them to seize the moment and recognize their accomplishment of this important milestone, while looking forward to even greater success in the future.”

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Underwood also serves as a role model for graduating students as a strong supporter of humanitarian initiatives. He is a co-founder of Artists for a New South Africa (ANSA), which is dedicated to combating HIV/AIDs, assisting children orphaned by the disease, advancing human and civil rights, and educating and empowering youth. He also has been recognized for his work with the Muscular Dystrophy Association and AIDS Healthcare Foundation. A best-selling published author, Underwood has also found success in the literary world and has a fifth novel set to release in September 2015.

Showcasing Student Achievement

AIU’s commencement ceremony will also spotlight the stories and advice of student and alumni speakers. Class of 2015 graduates can apply to become the AIU Graduating Class Speaker by submitting a speech highlighting the personal and educational experiences that shaped the path to their degree via email at graduation@aiuonline.edu by July 17. Previous graduates are invited to apply for the annual Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes the professional and academic successes of alumni after completing their degree at AIU. Applications will be accepted through May 31.

Commencement Events

AIU’s 2015 commencement ceremony will take place Saturday, Aug. 8, at 11 a.m. at the Navy Pier Grand Ballroom in Chicago. Underwood will also participate in a special meet-and-greet Alumni Evening event for graduates on Friday, Aug. 7, at Harry Caray's Italian Steakhouse in Chicago.

Graduates also will be able to share their experiences with family and friends who are unable to attend in person through AIU’s social photo booth. The social photo booth will be available at the Alumni Evening and commencement ceremony and will allow students to take photos celebrating their special day and share them in real-time on their personal Facebook and Twitter pages.

In the last 10 years, AIU has graduated more than 80,000 students through its online and ground campuses.

To learn more about AIU, visit www.aiuniv.edu.

About American InterContinental University:

Founded in Europe in 1970, American InterContinental University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in programs such as business, healthcare, IT, criminal justice and education at campuses in Atlanta and Houston and an Internet-based online campus headquartered in suburban Chicago. AIU is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. Additional information is available at www.hlcommission.org.

AIU is a member of the Career Education network of universities, colleges and institutes. For more information, visit www.aiuniv.edu. American InterContinental University cannot guarantee employment or salary. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. Transferability of credits is at the sole discretion of the receiving institution. Find employment rates, financial obligations and other disclosures at www.aiuniv.edu/disclosures.

AIUAllison Mortland, 847.585.3711AMortland@careered.com

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