West Wake News

NC State University is preparing to hold its spring commencement ceremony for the class of 2025 at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m. The event will feature a keynote address by Admiral Daryl Caudle, an esteemed alumnus and the commander of the United States Fleet Forces.

Adm. Caudle, leading the U.S. Northern Command and the U.S. Strategic Command, brings with him vast experience, overseeing a fleet of over 125 ships, 1,000 aircraft, and 103,000 active personnel and government employees. Prior to his current leadership roles, Caudle was instrumental as the commander of the Submarine Forces and in several high-ranking military capacities. He also served on the Joint Staff in Washington, D.C., contributing to strategic planning and policy.

Chancellor Randy Woodson will take the opportunity to confer honorary degrees on several distinguished individuals: Admiral Caudle, Ann Goodnight, known for her lifetime dedication to education, and Vivian Howard, a celebrated chef and media personality. Furthermore, the ceremony will honor NC State professor Clyde Sorenson for excellence in teaching and Craig Yencho for his achievements in the field of agriculture.

There will also be remarks from Terrica Lewis, a U.S. Navy veteran graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in communication.

Adm. Caudle, a native of Winston-Salem, NC, holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from NC State. His educational accomplishments include master's degrees in physics and engineering management and a doctorate focusing on cybersecurity and military decision-making.

More information about the commencement can be found on the university’s website.