Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms to Address UVI Graduates at 60th Commencement

The University of the Virgin Islands has proudly announced that Keisha Lance Bottoms, the esteemed former Mayor of Atlanta and previous senior advisor in the White House Office of Public Engagement, will grace its 60th Commencement Ceremonies as the keynote speaker. These milestone events are set to unfold on May 9 at the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas, and on May 10 at the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix, with both commencements beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Bottoms, whose career spans various echelons of government, made significant strides during her mayoral tenure beginning January 2, 2018. She adeptly steered Atlanta through tumultuous times, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the zenith of the racial justice movement, underscoring her pivotal role in tackling pressing urban issues and seizing opportunities within the United States.

The University of the Virgin Islands commends Lance Bottoms for her leadership, which propelled Atlanta towards notable economic resilience and growth amidst the pandemic’s challenges. Notably, her administration achieved balanced budgets across four years without increasing property taxes or reducing city personnel, all while bolstering city reserves to a robust $181 million. Her time in office was characterized by economic advancements for Atlanta, highlighted by the attraction of nine Fortune 500 company headquarters and the execution of initiatives aimed at systemic reforms to improve the lives of city residents.

Lance Bottoms’ administration made headline-worthy strides, including repurposing Atlanta’s jail into a center for diversion, abolishing cash bail for non-violent crimes, and the creation of over 7,000 affordable housing units. Her leadership was pivotal in advancing diversity and inclusion, through the establishment of new police and fire stations and substantial law enforcement reforms.

With Dr. David Hall, who is concluding a remarkable 15-year tenure as UVI President, at the helm, the university looks forward to Lance Bottoms sharing her journey and insights. Her story of impactful leadership and dedication to fostering an equitable and inclusive society is set to inspire the Class of 2024.

Keisha Lance Bottoms’ illustrious career and dedication to public service have garnered her widespread acclaim, including being named a Distinguished Civil Rights Advocate by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, one of Glamour Magazine’s Women of the Year, and securing a spot in Ebony Magazine’s Power 100 List.

As the daughter of R&B legend Major Lance, Keisha Lance Bottoms shares her life with her husband Derek Bottoms and their four children, embodying the roles of a committed public servant, spouse, and parent with grace and dedication.