Cherelle Parker, Mayor of Philadelphia, will deliver Rosemont’s 2025 commencement address and receive an honorary degree at the ceremony on Thursday, May 15.
“Mayor Parker’s dedication to public service will undoubtedly inspire our graduates and their families,” said Jim Cawley, president of Rosemont College. “I am thrilled that she will deliver this year’s commencement address. Mayor Parker’s leadership exemplifies the values we instill in our students. Her passion for positive change will encourage our graduates to embrace their roles as engaged and empowered members of society.”
Cherelle Parker was inaugurated as the 100th mayor of Philadelphia on January 2, 2024, becoming the first woman to lead the city and hold the office in 341 years.
A graduate of Philadelphia public schools, she was the first person in her family to go to college; earning her bachelor’s degree from Lincoln University where she was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., then earning her master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she taught public school as a high school English teacher and ESL teacher working with immigrant children and adults.
Inspired to public service by Councilwoman Marian Tasco, who she had interned for, Mayor Parker worked in Tasco’s office and rose to serve as a senior staffer where she oversaw – among many other things – the implementation of all economic and community development initiatives that helped neighborhoods and business corridors thrive. By the time she left, she became one of Councilwoman Tasco’s most trusted advisors.
While serving at the State Capitol, Mayor Parker was elected to the State House and went on to serve for 10 years representing Northwest Philadelphia. On winning her election, she made history as the youngest African American woman elected to the State Legislature. In Harrisburg, she was elected by her colleagues to chair the Philadelphia Delegation, and it was her leadership in this role that she earned her reputation as one of the most effective legislators in Harrisburg.
In 2025, Mayor Parker returned to City Council as an elected Member, representing the 9th District in Northwest and Northeast Philadelphia. In 2020, she was elected by her colleagues as Council’s Majority Leader.
About Rosemont College
Founded in 1921 by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, Rosemont College is a private, coeducational institution that is rooted in Catholicism and welcomes people of all faiths. Rosemont offers a comprehensive education through small group and experiential learning experiences while providing campus-wide academic, spiritual, and professional support. The College respects and embraces diversity and individuality and promotes students’ lifelong success.
