College of the Holy Cross holds commencement ceremonies for its 180th graduating class Friday, May 22, at the DCU Center, with former Massachusetts Gov. and current NCAA president Charlie Baker delivering the keynote address.
The ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. and alsos include honorary degrees for Baker and Tim Garvin, president and CEO of United Way of Central Massachusetts.
Holy Cross announced the commencement lineup Tuesday, highlighting both men’s records in public service and leadership. Baker has served as president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association since 2023 after serving two terms as governor of Massachusetts.
Before joining the NCAA, Baker served as CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and previously held state government leadership roles as secretary of administration and finance and secretary of health and human services.
Garvin has led United Way of Central Massachusetts for more than 20 years, overseeing initiatives focused on health, education and financial stability throughout Worcester County. Holy Cross said his work helped strengthen partnerships among nonprofits, businesses and community organizations across the region.
Before joining United Way, Garvin served in the Peace Corps in Jamaica with his wife, Theresa, and later became vice president and executive director of the YMCA of Greater Boston. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Clark University.
“I’m thrilled to honor Charlie Baker and Tim Garvin at our commencement ceremonies this year,” Holy Cross President Vincent D. Rougeau said in the college’s announcement. “Their commitment to public service and strengthening communities reflects the values at the heart of a Holy Cross education. Our graduates can learn from their example and carry that spirit of leadership and service into the world. It’s a privilege to recognize them as our honorary degree recipients.”
