Former Miss USA Deshauna Barber-Echols to serve as Keynote Speaker for Claflin University’s Spring 2025 Commencement Convocation

Deshauna Barber-Echols, a dynamic international motivational speaker, Army veteran, and former Miss USA, will deliver the keynote address for Claflin University’s Spring 2025 Commencement Convocation on Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. at the Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Wellness Complex. 

The convocation is a ticketed event. However, the live broadcast of the ceremony will be available on the University's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ClaflinUniversity1869.

More than 220 graduating scholars will be conferred bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the Class of 2025, including the first graduates to earn a Master of Science in Biotechnology with a Concentration in Climate Change.

Claflin will also honor alumni from the “Golden Class” of 1975 during this year’s commencement.

Barber-Echols is the founder of Women Veterans For Change, and she is renowned for her impactful and inspiring approach.  She recently partnered with E.L.F. BEAUTY and Emerald Audio Network as the hosts of their new limited podcast series, Valor, to highlight the extraordinary stories of courageous servicewomen throughout history, celebrating their bravery and resilience.

Leveraging her unique experiences as an Army officer, STEM graduate, and advocate, Deshauna exemplifies the power of perseverance and resilience. Her journey from a decorated military career to becoming a top-rated speaker, sought after by Fortune 500 companies, underscores her remarkable ability to inspire and motivate.

In 2019, Deshauna made history as the youngest President and CEO of the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN), a leading nonprofit dedicated to advocating for servicewomen and female veterans. During her tenure, she championed women’s rights and resources on Capitol Hill, making significant strides in support of our nation’s service members. She has also launched a speaker mentorship course called Thrive, a cohort-based training program with 18 aspiring students pursuing careers as motivational speakers.

Deshauna holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Virginia State University, a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems and Services from the University of Maryland University College, and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certification from Cornell University. Crowned Miss USA in 2016, Deshauna became the first soldier to win the title. She used her platform to advocate for increased support for soldiers with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

With over 11 years of military service, she continues to emphasize the importance of mental health for service members and veterans. A survivor of childhood sexual abuse, Deshauna channels her experiences into empowering others, dedicating her life to inspiring and uplifting those around her. As a motivational speaker and advocate, her global mission is to encourage, inspire, and strengthen individuals, embodying her commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

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