Raleigh – NC State University announced that Dr. Jim Goodnight, co‑founder and chief executive of SAS Institute, will deliver the fall commencement address on Saturday, Dec. 12. The ceremony will be held at the Lenovo Center on the university’s campus.
Alumni roots and academic pedigree
Goodnight is a three‑time graduate of NC State. He earned a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics and both a master’s and a doctorate in statistics, all from the university’s College of Sciences. His deep ties to the campus have made him a frequent supporter of student scholarships, research initiatives, and technology education programs.
From Cary to global analytics leader
Born and raised in the Triangle, Goodnight co‑founded SAS in nearby Cary in 1976. Over the past five decades the company has grown into one of the world’s leading analytics software providers, employing thousands of people and contributing significantly to the region’s economy. As a philanthropist, Goodnight has donated to a range of causes, including education, health care, and community development throughout North Carolina.
A familiar voice for graduates
This will be Goodnight’s second time addressing NC State graduates. He first spoke at the university’s fall commencement in December 2002, offering advice on perseverance, innovation, and the importance of lifelong learning. In a recent interview with WRAL, Goodnight reflected on SAS’s 50‑year history, the future of artificial intelligence, and the role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth.
What graduates can expect
Students and families attending the ceremony can look forward to a speech that blends personal anecdotes with forward‑looking insights on technology and leadership. Goodnight is expected to emphasize the value of a strong educational foundation, the responsibility of future leaders to serve their communities, and the opportunities that lie ahead for the next generation of innovators.
Event details
The commencement will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the Lenovo Center, a modern venue that hosts a variety of university events. Tickets are free for graduates, their families, and invited guests. The university encourages attendees to arrive early to accommodate parking and security procedures.
Goodnight’s participation underscores NC State’s tradition of inviting distinguished alumni to inspire new graduates. The university’s chancellor, Kevin Howell, praised Goodnight’s achievements and his ongoing commitment to the institution and the broader Triangle community.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
