College commencement speakers often encourage students to soar to new heights.
One scheduled speaker has done so literally.
Morris Brown College announced Monday that the “Human Highlight Film,” retired Atlanta Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins, will give its commencement speech next month. The ceremony is scheduled for May 18, 4 p.m. at Big Bethel AME Church on Auburn Avenue.
The small college, near downtown Atlanta, said last month it is trying to regain its accreditation after losing its status in 2002. Students who graduate from schools without accreditation have a more difficult time having their degrees recognized by most graduate schools or employers.
Morris Brown is still holding classes and offering degrees. Twenty students are scheduled to graduate this semester, a spokeswoman said.
Wilkins, known during his playing days for his high-flying dunks, is the team’s all-time leading scorer. He is the Hawks’ Vice President of Basketball and analyst for its broadcasts on FOX Sports Southeast. The Hawks erected a statue of Wilkins outside State Farm Arena in 2015.