Houston Texans’ Charley Casserly, State Senator Brian Lees To Speak At SC Commencement

Both Casserly and Lees will receive honorary doctor of humanics degrees. Springfield College has, historically, awarded honorary degrees to a few outstanding individuals who, by their character and accomplishments, personify the college’s guiding philosophy, humanics. The philosophy emphasizes the dedication of spirit, mind and body for leadership in service to others.

Casserly has been named executive of the year by “Sports Illustrated,” “Pro Football Weekly,” and “USA Today.” Known throughout professional football for his tireless work ethic and keen eye for football talent, he rose from an unpaid intern with the Washington Redskins to general manager of its Superbowl team before taking his current role with the Texans. Casserly earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Springfield College where he later served as assistant football coach. Early in his career, he was assistant coach and, later, athletic director at Cathedral High School before being head football coach at Minnechaugh High School.

Lees rose to his present position in the Massachusetts Senate in 1993 after having been assistant minority leader since 1991. He serves on the senate’s committees on ethics and rules; telecommunication, utilities and energy; tourism, arts and cultural development; and judiciary. In addition, he is a trustee of the Willie Ross School for the Deaf, and a corporator of the Springfield YMCA, Springfield Library and Museums Association, and Bright Side.

At its 119th commencement, Springfield College expects to award about 1,000 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, certificates of advanced study, and physician assistant certificates to students from 27 states and 6 countries. Faculty, staff and students from its main campus and nine satellite campuses of its School of Human Services around the country will participate in commencement events.

Released: 04/26/2005