Political Strategist Symone Sanders Townsend to Deliver Spelman College 2026 Commencement Address

Spelman College has tapped prominent political strategist and media personality Symone Sanders Townsend to deliver the keynote address at its 139th commencement ceremony on May 17, 2026. The announcement, made April 21, marks a significant moment for the prestigious historically Black college for women as it prepares to celebrate a historic graduating class.

Sanders Townsend, currently co-anchor of "The Weeknight" on MS Now, will receive an honorary doctorate of laws during the ceremony at the Georgia International Convention Center. Her selection underscores Spelman's commitment to showcasing leaders who exemplify excellence in public service and professional achievement.

Sanders Townsend's career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. She made history as the youngest presidential press secretary during Sen. Bernie Sanders' 2016 campaign before serving in key roles within the Biden administration, including as a senior advisor to President Joe Biden and chief spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris. Her rapid ascent in political communications has established her as one of the most influential voices in American politics.

Interim President Rosalind "Roz" Brewer, C'84, praised Sanders Townsend's multifaceted career as emblematic of the leadership Spelman seeks to cultivate in its students.

We are truly thrilled to welcome Symone Sanders Townsend to bring words of inspiration to our graduating Class of 2026.



The breadth of Symone's pursuits and depths of her influence make her the ideal person to inspire and move our graduates. As a strategist, communicator, and entrepreneur, she embodies the 21st-century Renaissance woman that the Spelman woman seeks to emulate.

Weekend of Celebration Honors Distinguished Black Women Leaders

The commencement ceremony is part of a broader weekend of festivities designed to celebrate the achievements of Spelman's graduates. The college will also recognize Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, former CEO of Feeding America, with the National Community Service Award, highlighting the institution's commitment to honoring humanitarian leadership.

The weekend's events will include a baccalaureate service led by Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart, a nationally respected faith leader. President Brewer emphasized the significance of featuring such an accomplished lineup of Black women leaders throughout the weekend ceremonies.

We are equally proud to host a distinguished lineup of dynamic Black women throughout our weekend ceremonies, including visionary humanitarian Claire Babineaux-Fontenot and nationally respected faith leader the Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart. This extraordinary group of women represents the very standard of leadership and impact we hope our graduates will carry into the world.

The ceremony promises to be an inspiring send-off for Spelman's Class of 2026 as they prepare to join the ranks of the college's distinguished alumnae network and make their mark on the world.

Originally reported by Black Enterprise.