St. Mary’s City, Md. — U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md., 8th) will deliver the commencement address at St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM) on May 10, 2025, at 10 a.m. on the College’s Townhouse Green. Raskin, a prominent congressional figure, will also receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during the ceremony, which will celebrate approximately 380 graduating students.
“A liberal arts education, regardless of the chosen academic major, should prepare every student for success across multiple careers during their lifetime. And, as an honors college, that educational experience should inspire in each of our students a high level of responsibility for humankind and the world in which they live. Congressman Raskin’s life is the manifestation of all of this and represents an aspirational model for all our students,” said St. Mary’s College President Tuajuanda C. Jordan, PhD.
The 2025 graduating class includes notable achievements, such as the college’s first NCAA Division III national champion and a Fulbright semi-finalist. The ceremony marks the final commencement under Jordan’s leadership, as she is set to retire on June 30, 2025, after 11 years as president of the National Public Honors College.
Raskin, now in his fifth term representing Maryland’s 8th Congressional District, serves as the Ranking Member on the House Committee on the Judiciary and was a key member of the Select Committee investigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. His legislative career began in the Maryland Senate, where he served from 2007 to 2016, rising to majority whip from 2012 to 2016. During his tenure, Raskin championed significant legislation, including marriage equality, the abolition of the death penalty, and the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact.
A Harvard College and Harvard Law School graduate, Raskin taught constitutional law at American University’s Washington College of Law for over 25 years. He has authored several influential books, including “We the Students: Supreme Court Cases for and About America’s Students” and the New York Times bestseller “Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth and the Trials of American Democracy”. His academic and legislative work has focused on advancing democratic principles and social justice.
St. Mary’s College, known for its liberal arts curriculum, emphasizes preparing students for diverse careers while fostering a sense of global responsibility. The selection of Raskin aligns with this mission, as his career exemplifies public service and civic engagement. The 2025 commencement will be a milestone for the college, honoring both the graduates’ accomplishments and Jordan’s legacy as president.
The ceremony will take place outdoors, weather permitting, and is open to the public. SMCM has a history of hosting distinguished speakers, and Raskin’s address is expected to draw significant attention due to his national profile and legislative achievements. His speech will likely reflect on the importance of education and civic responsibility, themes central to his career and the college’s values.
Raskin’s involvement in high-profile congressional investigations, including the January 6th inquiry, has elevated his national prominence. His work on judicial and democratic issues continues to shape policy discussions in Washington, D.C.. For SMCM students, his presence offers a chance to hear from a leader who has navigated complex political challenges while advocating for progressive change.
As Jordan prepares to step down, her tenure is noted for strengthening SMCM’s reputation as a public honors college. The 2025 commencement will serve as a capstone to her leadership, with Raskin’s address highlighting the college’s commitment to fostering engaged, thoughtful graduates.
