7NEWS Today in New England anchor Amaka Ubaka will receive an honorary degree and deliver the Commencement address at Regis College’s Class of 2023 Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 6.
Named one of Boston magazine’s most influential people in 2022, Ubaka has been honored with two Emmy awards for Outstanding Morning Newscast. Since joining 7NEWS as a reporter in 2016, she has become one the area’s most beloved media personalities. She previously worked as a reporter in Orlando, Florida; Omaha, Nebraska; and northern California.
Of Nigerian-American descent, Amaka’s name means “beautiful” in one of the many languages spoken in Africa’s most populous country. She received a Presidential Award in 2018 for being a role model for Igbo children by the Igbo Organization of New England. She is passionate about community engagement and has served as an emcee for several charities including Project Hope, YWCA Cambridge, International Institute of New England, Rosie’s Place, and The One Mission Buzz Off. Ubaka is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Miami.
“Regis students in the Class of 2023 value diversity. They are committed to service and have learned how to lead through innovative programs so they are prepared to take on any challenge. I’m excited to highlight their hard work and the promise of change they can bring to our communities,” said Ubaka.
“Amaka’s excellence in her field, service to the community, and welcoming personality is inspiring the next generation of leaders,” said Antoinette M. Hays, PhD, RN, president of Regis College. “We look forward to Amaka imparting words of wisdom upon our graduates as we celebrate their accomplishments at Commencement.”
The university will also bestow honorary degrees on Bill and Joyce Cummings, founders of Cummings Foundation, Inc., for their commitment to giving back to the Greater Boston community.
“Through their care and generosity for causes including human services, education, healthcare, and social justice, Bill and Joyce continue to positively transform the lives of so many people, including Regis students,” said President Hays. “The mission of Regis College calls each of us to inspire our students to serve and lead for a just and compassionate society. Bill and Joyce embrace this guiding principle for the university and are wonderful examples of how through advocacy, one can make a meaningful impact for those in need.”
“We consider it a true honor, indeed, to be thought of for this recognition. Greater Boston is so fortunate to have Regis, which offers top-notch academic programs combined with a supportive community and a commitment to service. Its efforts related to nursing and other health professions are particularly important for the future of our health care workforce. We are most grateful to President Hays and the faculty and staff for their dedication to providing the next generation with an excellent educational experience," said Bill Cummings.
At the 93rd commencement ceremony on May 6 at the Leader Bank Pavilion in Boston’s Seaport District, Regis expects to graduate more than 1,000 students with degrees from the associate to doctoral levels.
