Scott Pelley to Speak at Wake Forest Commencement in May

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Award-winning journalist Scott Pelley will deliver the commencement address at Wake Forest University on May 19, 2025. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on Hearn Plaza.

Pelley, who has been a prominent figure at CBS News for over two decades, has contributed to the success of the program “60 Minutes,” which has won numerous awards for his reporting. Previously, he served as the anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News from 2011 to 2017 and was the chief White House correspondent from 1997 to 1999.

Throughout his career, Pelley has interviewed five U.S. presidents, ranging from George H.W. Bush to Joe Biden. He has also engaged with key government figures, including Secretaries of State and Defense, as well as Federal Reserve Chairs.

Among the significant events he has covered are the September 11 terrorist attacks and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, alongside his reporting in various war zones, highlighting the human cost of conflict worldwide. Pelley’s impressive portfolio includes over 50 Emmy Awards and prestigious recognitions such as the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Silver Batons and the George Foster Peabody Awards.

“Whether interviewing political figures, economists, activists or international leaders, Scott Pelley has a unique ability to find the human story within major events,” said Wake Forest President Susan R. Wente. “His ability to turn complex issues into compelling narratives will inspire our graduates as they prepare to engage with the world. We look forward to welcoming Scott to Wake Forest.”

In addition to his journalistic achievements, Pelley is the author of “Truth Worth Telling: A Reporter’s Search for Meaning in the Stories of Our Times.” The book, published in 2019, details encounters with individuals who found deeper meaning during historic events.

Also participating in the commencement weekend is baccalaureate speaker Reverend Emma Jordan-Simpson, the president of Auburn Theological Seminary. Jordan-Simpson, who assumed the presidency in 2021, is noted for being the first Black woman and non-Presbyterian to lead the seminary.

Her leadership is recognized for nurturing a diverse and inclusive democratic environment that encompasses multiracial, multifaith, multigenerational, and multiethnic perspectives. The baccalaureate service will take place in Wait Chapel on May 18 at 11 a.m.

For more information regarding Wake Forest’s commencement weekend, please visit the university’s website.

Media contact for further inquiries: Kim McGrath, 336-758-5237.