Skip to main content

Jim Haudan to Receive Honorary Degree from Lourdes University

Local business leader to give address at Spring Commencement.

Jim Haudan

Lourdes University is set to honor Jim Haudan during its upcoming Spring Commencement Week, which begins Thursday, May 2, and concludes with Commencement on Saturday, May 4 at 1:00 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Russell J. Ebeid Recreation Center, located on campus at 6832 Convent Blvd.

Haudan, a former Lourdes University Board Member and the Chairman and Co-Founder of Root, will be bestowed with a Doctor of Public Service, Honoris Causa degree during the ceremony. Moreover, he will grace the event as the 66th Commencement speaker, offering insights garnered from his extensive experience in transforming organizations worldwide.

For over three decades, Jim Haudan has been at the forefront of facilitating transformative change within some of the world’s most influential organizations. His profound impact is encapsulated in his bestselling book, “The Art of Engagement: Bridging the Gap Between People and Possibilities” (McGraw-Hill, 2008), where he outlines strategies to enhance organizational culture and drive exceptional results. Additionally, his latest work, “What Are Your Blind Spots? Conquering the 5 Misconceptions That Hold Leaders Back” (McGraw-Hill, 2018), co-authored with Root CEO Rich Berens, delves into overcoming leadership barriers and fostering engagement at all levels.

With a portfolio comprising over 150 Global 2000 companies, Haudan has guided numerous organizations through intricate business transformations. He has also provided invaluable executive coaching to CEOs, assisting them in refining their leadership, change management, and strategic decision-making acumen.

In recognition of his profound contributions to the realm of business and leadership, Lourdes University is proud to confer upon Jim Haudan an honorary degree, celebrating his dedication to fostering positive change and creating more human workplaces.

Please join the Lourdes University community in celebrating Jim Haudan’s accomplishments along with our 130 graduates!

Commencement Week Activities

Nursing Pinning Ceremony
Thursday, May 2, 2024, 7:00 p.m. in Russell J. Ebeid Recreation Center

The College of Nursing Pinning Ceremony recognizes Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Doctor of Nursing graduation candidates. The event includes an official pinning, oath, and blessing of the hands. A reception follows. The event is open to the public.

Student Awards Ceremony
Thursday, May 2, 2024, 5:00 p.m. in the Franciscan Center Commons

Lourdes University bestows awards to students and graduation candidates who have achieved high marks in academics, student life, service learning, and campus ministry. The event is open to the public.

Baccalaureate Mass
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 10:00 a.m. in Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel

Graduates, family, friends, faculty, and staff will attend the Baccalaureate Mass. The service is open to the public.

66th Commencement Ceremony
Saturday, May 4, 2024, 1:00 p.m. in Russell J. Ebeid Recreation Center

Lourdes University President William J. Bisset, Ph.D., will confer degrees on 130 graduates. Jim Haudan, former Lourdes University Board Member and Chairman and Co-Founder of Root, will receive a Doctor of Public Service, Honoris Causa degree during the ceremony and serve as the 66th Commencement speaker. Commencement is a ticketed event.

Close Menu