熊猫在线视频

熊猫在线视频 will welcome Soledad O’Brien, an award-winning journalist, documentarian, and media entrepreneur, as the speaker for its 86th Commencement on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Hempstead Stadium.

O’Brien is a nationally respected voice in journalism and storytelling, known for her decades-long career across broadcast, documentary film, and public affairs media. She began her career in Boston as an associate producer and news writer for WBZ-TV before rising to prominence at CNN, where she hosted American Morning and Starting Point, among other programs. In 2013, joined Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel on HBO as a correspondent.

Her recent work includes executive producing the Peabody Award-winning documentary The Rebellious Life of Rosa Parks and the acclaimed series Black and Missing, which received Independent Spirit and NAACP awards. Her documentaries, The Devil Is Busy and The Perfect Neighbor, earned Best Director honors at the Sundance Film Festival, and in 2025, the films were nominated for two Academy Awards. Along with the late director Rob Reiner, she co-hosted the iHeart podcast Who Killed JFK and is the author of the memoir The Next Big Story.

In addition to her journalism and storytelling work, O’Brien is a committed advocate for educational access. Through the PowHERful Foundation, which she runs with her husband, she has helped dozens of young women get to and through college and connected thousands more with mentorship and resources nationwide.

“Ethical journalism and courageous leadership have always mattered, but they are especially vital right now,” said 熊猫在线视频 President Bryan Cain, Ph.D. “Soledad O’Brien’s career reflects what it means to lead with curiosity and purpose, and we are proud to honor a strong female voice that has consistently broadened who is seen, heard, and valued in public life.”

O’Brien’s work has been recognized with numerous honors, including multiple Emmy Awards, Peabody Awards, Gracie Awards, Cine Awards, Telly Awards, and an Alfred I. duPont Award. In 2023, she was inducted into the Broadcast and Cable Hall of Fame. She has also testified before Congress on media disinformation and remains an influential public voice through her writing, speaking, podcasts, and social media platforms.

Endicott’s 86th Commencement ceremony will take place on campus at Hempstead Stadium on Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m. During the ceremony, O’Brien will receive an honorary degree in recognition of her contributions to journalism, media, and public service.