Politics & Government

Baker Travels to Japan to Celebrate UMUC Asia Commencement

The county executive will deliver the graduating class's commencement speech.

Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker III left today for Okinawa, Japan, to be the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) Asia campus' commencement speaker on Saturday, according to a statement from Baker's office. 

“I am excited that the University of Maryland University College selected me to deliver the commencement address for the Asia campus in Okinawa," Baker said in the statement. "UMUC is one of Prince George’s County’s major educational institutions and my trip there highlights the international impact that Prince George’s County businesses, institutions and people are having throughout the world."

He will be speaking at 3 p.m. Japan Standard Time on April 20.

Find out what's happening in Upper Marlborowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“UMUC has been on the cutting-edge of distant learning for decades and I want to thank them for bestowing this honor upon me," he added. "As a former member of the military and son to a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier, I understand firsthand the level of commitment and sacrifice many of these military graduates and their families have made to protect our nation. To do that, and pursue their degrees is a testament to the level of focus and commitment that the men and women possess."

As a child, Baker lived in Okinawa for a few years when his father was stationed there.

Find out what's happening in Upper Marlborowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"These graduates have earned my highest respect and admiration,” he added.

UMUC is one of the largest providers of education to the U.S. military worldwide and serves 50,000 active-duty military service members, reservists, veterans and their families through a contract with the U.S. Department of Defense, the release stated.

While Baker is out of the country, Chief Administrative Officer Bradford Seamon will be the Acting County Executive.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Upper Marlboro