High Point University to Feature CEOs from Global Brands at Commencement

High Point University (HPU) has announced that graduates of the 2025-26 academic year will receive guidance from the chief executives of three globally recognized brands during their Commencement ceremonies. These influential leaders will deliver motivational addresses aimed at inspiring students as they transition into their professional lives.

Kathryn McLay, the president and CEO of Walmart International, is set to address undergraduate students on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Since her appointment in 2023, she has overseen a team of over 500,000 associates serving approximately 80 million customers weekly across 18 countries. Prior to leading Walmart International, McLay was the president and CEO of Sam’s Club, where she achieved notable revenue growth of 43%, reaching $84 billion during the 2023 fiscal year.

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, Chuck Robbins, chair and CEO of Cisco Systems, will speak to graduate students. Robbins, who has been with Cisco since 1997, became CEO in 2015 and has since focused on enhancing the company’s global sales and employee experience. Under his leadership, Cisco earned the distinction of being named the top company on Fortune’s annual list of 100 Best Companies to Work For for three consecutive years, from 2021 to 2023.

The Fall Commencement ceremony on Friday, December 12, 2025, will feature Frank Harrison III, chair and CEO of Coca-Cola Consolidated, the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. Harrison, who has been at the helm of the company since 1996, began his career in the family business in 1977. He has been instrumental in expanding the company’s reach and influence in the beverage industry.

HPU President Nido Qubein expressed enthusiasm about the lineup of speakers, stating, “Leaders from major corporations regularly visit our campus and impart wisdom to our students on how to lead successful careers and meaningful lives. This is an extraordinary lineup of speakers that reflects HPU’s commitment to preparing students for the world as it is going to be.”

These addresses are part of a long tradition at HPU, where distinguished speakers from various fields have shared their insights with graduates. Past speakers include renowned figures such as Jane Seymour, actress and producer; Raj Subramaniam, president and CEO of FedEx Corporation; and Cynt Marshall, former CEO of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks.

The presence of such high-profile executives underscores the university’s dedication to providing students with valuable perspectives from those who lead some of the world’s largest companies. Each speaker brings a wealth of experience and a unique viewpoint, which is expected to resonate with graduates embarking on their professional journeys.

As HPU prepares for these significant events, students and faculty alike look forward to the insights and inspiration that these leaders will impart, marking a pivotal moment in their academic careers.