Lincoln University is set to mark a powerful milestone as it announces that Reverend Dr. William J. Barber II will serve as the keynote speaker for its 167th commencement ceremony. With more than 400 students preparing to graduate, the historic HBCU is bringing a nationally recognized voice for social justice and moral leadership to center stage for one of the most important days of the academic year.
Known for his impactful advocacy and leadership, Rev. Dr. Barber’s presence signals a commencement rooted in purpose and reflection as graduates prepare to step into a world where their voices and actions carry increasing weight. His address is expected to inspire the Class of 2026 to lead with courage, conviction, and a commitment to equity—hallmarks of both his life’s work and Lincoln University’s enduring legacy.
“Our 167th Commencement is a powerful reflection of Lincoln University’s mission and its enduring impact across generations,” said President Dr. Brenda Allen. “This joyful celebration affirms the resilience, talent, and promise of our graduates, and we are deeply excited to watch them step confidently into the next chapter of their lives—equipped to innovate, serve, and shape the future.”
Rev. Dr. Barber served as senior pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) for 30 years, but his influence extends far beyond the pulpit. He is the president and senior lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, professor in the practice of public theology and public policy at Yale Divinity School, and founding director of its Center for Public Theology and Public Policy. He also serves as co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival and is a bishop with The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries.
His commitment to service is deeply rooted in both faith and community. Rev. Dr. Barber previously served as president of the North Carolina NAACP from 2006 to 2017 and on the national board of directors from 2008 to 2020. A leading voice in modern civil rights advocacy, he is the creator of the Forward Together Moral Movement, which gained national attention through the Moral Monday protests in 2013. He later founded Repairers of the Breach to train communities in moral movement building and helped relaunch the Poor People’s Campaign in 2018, continuing the legacy of the 1968 campaign led by Martin Luther King Jr.
Rev. Dr. Barber’s lifelong work has been recognized by major national outlets and honored with numerous awards, including the MacArthur Foundation “Genius” Grant, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Award, and the North Carolina Award, the state’s highest civilian honor. He has also received multiple honorary degrees in recognition of his impact across faith, policy, and social justice.
In addition to Rev. Dr. Barber serving as commencement speaker, four individuals will be presented with honorary degrees, including former Pennsylvania State Senator Andy Dinniman, PEAC Chairperson Dr. Renosi Mokate, Dr. Sibusiso Vil-Nkomo of the University of South Africa, and the late Dr. A. Wade Boykin, a former Howard University professor.
As Lincoln University prepares to celebrate its graduates, the 167th commencement stands as more than a ceremony—it is a moment of reflection, legacy, and forward momentum. With Rev. Dr. Barber set to deliver a message grounded in justice and purpose, the Class of 2026 will leave not only with degrees in hand but also with a renewed call to lead, serve, and create lasting change in the communities they touch.
