David Manning, British Ambassador to the United States and a 1972 Bologna Center graduate, will be commencement speaker when the SAIS class of ’07 graduates on May 17.

Manning’s distinguished diplomatic career encompasses more than three decades of leadership roles around the globe. Prior to arriving in Washington, D.C., as ambassador in September 2003, he was foreign policy adviser to Prime Minister Tony Blair. Other overseas assignments have included serving as ambassador to Israel and NATO as well as posts in France, India, Poland and Russia.

"Commencement is a day of celebration for our graduating class, whose family and friends often come from afar," said Dean Jessica P. Einhorn. "It is a great pleasure to know that our students and their guests will enjoy the wisdom and grace of Ambassador Manning on that special day."

In announcing to fellow students Manning’s selection as commencement speaker, members of the Student Government Association wrote: "We believe that Ambassador Manning exemplifies the blend of expertise and experience that lies at the very heart of a SAIS education. From the time he was a graduate student at the Bologna Center to now where he is British Ambassador to the United States, Sir David’s longstanding commitment to advance international relations through diplomacy serves as an inspiration to us all as we soon embark on our own careers. We are proud that he has agreed to be the commencement speaker for the Class of 2007."

Manning graduated from Oriel College at University of Oxford before attending the Bologna Center. In 2003, the Johns Hopkins University Alumni Association recognized Manning for his accomplishments and commitment to public service with the JHU Distinguished Alumnus Award.