St. Davids, PA: Eastern University is pleased to announce Marvin Rees as the May 2025 commencement speaker. Marvin is a graduate of Eastern University's Economic Development Program ('01).

He served as Mayor of Bristol, UK from 2016-2024 and was the first person of Black African heritage elected as mayor of any major European city. His tenure was marked by a blend of political and social leadership, earning him an international reputation for his impactful governance.

His leadership is rooted in his personal journey. Growing up as a mixed-race son of a single white mother in 1970s Britain, he faced racism and stigma. This shaped his commitment to social justice, racial equality, poverty alleviation and ambition.

His lived experiences drive his advocacy for inclusive policies, social mobility and delivery of real practical solutions, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all. Marvin has been a strong proponent of the importance of city leadership and the potential of urbanization to address global challenges. He delivered a TED Talk in 2022 on the critical role cities play in combating climate change.

Marvin has been recognized for the significance of his leadership including: an OBE, for services to local government; an Honorary Industrial Professor with University of Bristol; Honorary Fellowship, UK Faculty of Public Health; Honorary Doctorate, Swansea University; Honorary Fellowship, RIBA; International Urban Leadership Award, University of Pennsylvania. In 2019 he was named Politician of the Year by the Business Green Leaders Awards. In 2025 he was given a Life Peerage by the Prime Minister of the UK and elevated to the UK House of Lords.