Mayor Colvin and Lenovo’s Ryan McCurdy to Deliver Spring 2025 Commencement Addresses
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Fayetteville State University (FSU) is proud to announce that Mayor Mitch Colvin and Ryan McCurdy, Senior Vice President and President of Lenovo’s North America International Sales Organization, will serve as keynote speakers for the university’s Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies. The graduate ceremony is Friday, May 9 at 10 a.m. in the Felton J. Capel Arena, and the undergraduate ceremony is Saturday, May 10 at 9 a.m. at the Crown Coliseum.
A Champion for Community: Mayor Mitch Colvin
A proud native of Fayetteville and FSU alum, Mayor Mitch Colvin has dedicated his life to improving the lives of citizens and building a stronger, more inclusive city. Currently serving his fourth term, Mayor Colvin is the city’s longest-serving African-American mayor. He previously served two terms on the Fayetteville City Council and as mayor pro tem.
In addition to his leadership in public service, Mayor Colvin is the owner and operator of Colvin Funeral Home and Crematory, a business he assumed leadership of at just 21 years old. Under his guidance, the business has become a trusted community institution.
Mayor Colvin is a tireless advocate for economic development, workforce readiness, and mental health awareness. He has worked closely with judicial leaders to promote criminal record expungement for non-violent offenders, providing second chances and new pathways for many in the community. His vision for Fayetteville includes connecting the city to the global economy while investing in infrastructure and education to prepare for the future.
A Global Technology Leader: Ryan McCurdy
Ryan McCurdy serves as Senior Vice President and President of the North America International Sales Organization at Lenovo. Since joining the company in 2023, he has been responsible for driving revenue and profit growth across Lenovo’s Intelligent Devices Group, Infrastructure Solutions Group, and Solutions & Services Group.
Prior to his role at Lenovo, McCurdy spent over two decades at Intel Corporation, most recently leading the Global Accounts Organization — a portfolio that represented approximately half of Intel’s total revenue. His expertise spans operations, strategy, OEM management, and global sales leadership, having worked closely with major tech giants including Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and HP.
A graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in Supply Chain Management, McCurdy lives in Cary, North Carolina, with his wife and eight children. His leadership in the technology sector and commitment to innovation make him an inspiring voice for graduates entering a rapidly evolving workforce.
Honoring the Class of 2025
Fayetteville State University is excited to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025 alongside two dynamic leaders whose careers exemplify the values of service, innovation, and perseverance.
Additional FSU commencement and graduate information is available online, including the live stream when it becomes available. Media credentials for the ceremony are available upon request.