HTC 2019 Commencement Keynote Speaker

Hennepin Technical College to celebrate spring commencement
General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening to serve as keynote speaker

Minneapolis, May 7, 2019 -- Hennepin Technical College will recognize this year’s graduating class at commencement exercises at the Minneapolis Convention Center on Friday, May 10.

Dr. Merrill Irving. Jr., Hennepin Technical College president, will preside over the ceremony honoring 934 graduates who have earned degrees, diplomas or certificates. The processional begins at 10:55 a.m., the program begins at 11 a.m. and the ceremony concludes at 1 p.m.

Jeff Harmening, chairman and chief executive officer of General Mills, will serve as keynote speaker. This is the first time a CEO will provide the keynote at a Hennepin Technical College commencement. Distinguished speakers in previous years have included Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith and Shawntera Hardy, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

This year’s student speaker is Augustine Njosta who earned an associate degree in automation robotics and engineering technology. He is a first-generation college student who emigrated from Cameroon to the U.S. five years ago. Njosta plans to work in the engineering field and hopes to become an entrepreneur.

Hennepin Technical College values diversity, equity and inclusion. In the class of 2019, underrepresented minorities constitute 67% of graduates and 27% are first-generation college students. Graduates will receive degrees, diplomas or certificates in programs that include information technology (IT), healthcare, transportation, manufacturing and engineering technology.

About Hennepin Technical College

Founded in 1972, Hennepin Technical College (HTC) is the largest stand-alone technical college in Minnesota. With campuses in Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie, the college has a diverse student population of more than 18,000 and offers degree and non-degree coursework in over 45 programs. Achieving a 99% job placement rate within its network of industry partners, HTC prepares students for in-demand and high-paying employment opportunities. HTC is a member of Minnesota State, which includes 30 colleges and seven state universities serving over 375,000 students. For more information, visit HennepinTech.edu.

Media contact: Lisa Kiava, 612-559-8068, lisa.kiava@hennepintech.edu