Romero Named Keynote Speaker for May 16 Graduation
Dr. Jonathan Romero, a Thomas Nelson College Board member and alumnus, has been selected as the keynote speaker for the College's 53rd Commencement Exercises.
Romero, a clinical assistant professor in Old Dominion University's School of Nursing, graduated from Thomas Nelson in May 2011. He also has degrees from Fort Hays State University, Walden University, and Regis College. Before joining ODU's faculty, he was at Hampton University for almost four years. In addition, he's a certified surgical assistant/registered nurse.
He has represented Hampton on the Thomas Nelson Board since 2018 and serves on its Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Services committee.
Shortly after graduating from Thomas Nelson, he established a nursing scholarship at the College to give back and say thank you for the support he received as an undergraduate.
He also is on the governing board of directors for WHRO, a public television station in Hampton Roads. He is an avid sailor and heavily involved in the sailing community.
Dr. Towuanna Porter Brannon, the College president, said Romero was surprised and humbled when he was notified.
"I am delighted that he has accepted and look forward to his message," she said.
The graduation ceremony is set for 5 p.m. Monday, May 16 at Hampton's Liberty Live Church on Big Bethel Road. It will be the College's first in-person graduation ceremony since 2019, and the classes of 2020 and 2021 also are invited to walk. The event will recognize the last graduating class of Thomas Nelson Community College, which is becoming Virginia Peninsula Community College. The College plans to live stream the event.
More information about commencement is available at vpcc.edu.