This year, Florida A&M University will introduce Mayor John Marks as the keynote speaker for the 2010 summer commencement.
The ceremony is scheduled for Friday, August 6 in the Alfred Lawson, Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium at 6 p.m.
Marks found out that he was the chosen one in mid-July.
“I was extremely honored to be chosen,” he said.
During the ceremony, Marks will discuss the elements of success with the soon-to-be grads.
Marks is not only the mayor of the city, but he also serves as the managing partner of the law office, Adorno & Yoss, in Tallahassee. He was elected as Mayor in 2003 to serve a four-year term and re-elected in 2006.
As a member of the American, National, Florida and Tallahassee Bar Associations, Marks still finds time to give back to students.
He is a member of the American Law Institute, The ABA’s Public Utilities Law Section and the Florida’s Bar’s Local Government and Administrative Law Sections. T Florida Super Lawyer Magazine named him Super Lawyer in the area of Utility Regulatory Law.
His professional affiliations has brought him back to doing service at Florida State University, the school where he earned his bachelor and doctorate degrees, and where he has given back to the community through his campaigns.
Marks is a lifetime member of the NAACP, and was formerly a political analyst/co-host on the local television show “The Usual Suspects.”
Both of his parents are graduates of Florida A&M University.
“My mother is still with us and my father has since passed, but I know they both would be proud to see their son speak at such an important event,” Marks said. ” I have always valued my relationship with FAMU and it truly is an honor and a privilege to be a part of this year’s commencement.”