Sweeney to speak at commencement

John Sweeney, president of the AFL-CIO and a major progressive force in the American labor movement, will deliver this year's commencement address.

Sweeney, who will also receive an honorary law doctorate, won the presidency of the AFL-CIO in 1995. He ran on a ticket emphasizing organization, promotion of people of color and women into leadership roles and strengthening the union's political power.

President Nancy Dye is chair of the honorary degrees committee. "I'm very pleased John Sweeney is going to be the commencement speaker," she said. "I think he has a lot to say about the nature of not only the labor movement, but the economy as a whole, especially in a time when we are becoming a truly global economy."

Sweeney came to the AFL-CIO from the Service Employees International Union, which he had been president of since 1980. During the 1980s, when labor unions in the U.S. experienced sharp declines in membership, Sweeney doubled the SEIU's membership by emphasizing organization and targeting job sectors with high percentages of women and people of color. As head of the AFL-CIO, Sweeney has maintained his commitment to organizing, diversifying and strengthening the labor movement.

Associate Professor of Politics Chris Howell will present Sweeney's honorary degree.

In addition to Sweeney, a renowned scientist, an historian and a local psychologist will receive honorary degrees at this year's ceremony.

Frederick Cross, OC '42, will receive an honorary doctor of science degree. A pioneer in open heart surgery, Cross helped to invent the heart-lung machine.

Robert Kingdon, OC '49, will receive an honorary doctor of humanities degree. Kingdon is a renowned historian on the European Reformation.

The recipient of the College's annual award for distinguished community service will go to professional psychologist Marion Baum. Baum has worked in many capacities in the Oberlin community, from helping to develop the Living and Learning Institute - a program for older adults - to working as a family psychologist at Allen Memorial Hospital.

In addition, Elaine Amacker Bridges, OC '59, will receive the alumni medal for outstanding and sustained service to the College and its extended community.