CNN news anchor and UNC alumna Brooke Baldwin will deliver the university’s Commencement address this May.

UNC made the announcement on Wednesday.

Baldwin is a native of Georgia who graduated from UNC with degrees in Journalism and Spanish in 2001, according to the university.

“We are fortunate to have Brooke Baldwin, an award-winning journalist and Carolina graduate, returning to her alma mater to share her experiences about broadcast journalism today,” said Chancellor Carol Folt in a release announcing the choice. “I have had the pleasure of meeting Brooke and I know our students will be inspired by her story of building upon what she learned at UNC-Chapel Hill to create a successful career covering significant breaking news stories around the world.”

Baldwin has been at CNN since 2008.

“Coming home to Carolina and speaking to the Class of 2017 is a “bucket list” opportunity for me. Once in a lifetime. I’ll never forget standing in my blue robe in 2001 listening to the wise words of the legendary Stuart Scott,” said Baldwin. “I have big shoes to fill. I’m beyond honored. See y’all in May!”

Spring Commencement is scheduled for nine o’clock the morning of Sunday, May 14 – Mother’s Day – in Kenan Memorial Stadium.

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