Surrounded by faculty, administrators, students and members of the Wittenberg community, Ohio Lt. Governor Jennette Bradley ’74 ushered in the 159th academic year as the keynote speaker for the university’s Wittenberg Series-sponsored Opening Convocation, Sept. 3, in Weaver Chapel.

Bradley, who made history in November 2002 as the nation’s first African American woman elected lieutenant governor as well as the first alumna to hold this office, discussed “The Merits of Public Service in Our Changing Times” in her address.

Bradley shared some of her duties as Ohio’s second in command, including her role during the massive August blackout, which affected portions of the Buckeye state. In addition, she challenged those in attendance to participate in life and in the causes that mean something to them.

“In giving, we learn so much,” she said, “and we make our community stronger.”

Along with serving as the state’s lieutenant governor, Bradley also directs the Ohio Department of Commerce and serves as the chief policy adviser for community development and housing programs. Prior to her election, Bradley served as a member of the City Council in Columbus for 11 years and as senior vice president for a large Ohio bank. A recipient of numerous professional and civic awards, Bradley also serves on the Wittenberg board of directors.