American University Names Cleveland Mayor Bibb December Speaker
Washington – November 12, 2026 -- American University will award an honorary degree to Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb, a 2009 alumnus, when he addresses 1,100 graduates at its December commencement on December 20, 2026.
Ceremony Covers Eight Academic Units at Bender Arena
The ceremony begins at 9:00 a.m. in Bender Arena on the AU campus. Graduates will receive degrees from eight academic units. Bibb, who earned a BA from the School of Public Affairs, will be the university's 152nd commencement speaker.
AU's David Marchick will join Bibb at the ceremony. Marchick described Bibb as Cleveland's first millennial mayor and said he demonstrates the impact AU graduates can make.