CURiO Brands chairwoman and WNBA owner; former NFL fullback and financial services leader to keynote
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) will conclude a record-setting fall semester by celebrating its 146th Commencement Exercises on Friday, Dec. 12, in McDougald-McLendon Arena. The graduate and professional ceremony begins at 9 a.m., followed by the baccalaureate ceremony at 2 p.m.
The fall ceremonies will feature two leaders whose journeys embody courage, innovation and service, values that mirror the spirit of NCCU’s graduates.
Graduate and Professional Ceremony Speaker: Anne Sempowski Ward
A corporate board director, investor and former CEO, Anne Sempowski Ward has led some of the world’s most recognized brands, including Coca-Cola, EBONY and Clairol.
As chairwoman of CURiO Brands, a growing portfolio of beauty, wellness and home fragrance companies, Ward has guided the company to quadruple in size under her leadership.
She also serves on the boards of SPS Commerce, Vanda Pharmaceuticals and The Lip Bar, and contributes her expertise to the Duke University Fuqua School of Business Board of Visitors and the University of St. Thomas Board of Trustees.
A strong advocate for women in sports, Ward is an owner of the WNBA’s Chicago Sky and two United Soccer League franchises.
Baccalaureate Ceremony Speaker: Rob Robertson
From the football field to the financial frontlines, Rob Robertson has built a career defined by perseverance and purpose. A former NFL fullback for the Baltimore Ravens, Robertson brings more than 24 years of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in home lending and market expansion.
He has held senior leadership roles at PNC Bank, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, where he is known for building high-performing teams and cultivating cultures of accountability and care. Robertson currently serves as senior vice president and head of strategic sales at First Citizens Bank in Raleigh, North Carolina. He defines his leadership mantra using the acronym C.P.R. (Culture, People, Relationships), emphasizing the importance of embodying a culture of caring.
Beyond his professional success, Robertson’s passion for service runs deep. As president of the D.C. Chapter of the National Football Players Association (NFLPA), he led the chapter to earn Chapter of the Year honors in 2023. He currently serves as chairman of the NFLPA Former Player Advisory Board and sits on the boards of MENTOR and Big Brothers Big Sisters National Capital Area, mentoring youth and strengthening communities.
Celebrating its one-year anniversary, Robertson launched “Persevering Through Purpose,” a memoir reflecting on overcoming loss and adversity, offering inspiration to anyone facing challenges in their own life. His journey exemplifies perseverance and purpose-driven leadership.
Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Robertson lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, Nneka, and their children, Bryson and Boston Olivia. He credits his grandmother, affectionately known as Madear, for instilling the values of faith, perseverance and service that continue to guide his life and leadership.
View and download photos of both speakers here.
Security and Streaming:
To ensure the safety of guests and graduates, NCCU will conduct security screenings and enforce its clear bag policy. Permitted bags must be clear plastic, vinyl or PVC, no larger than 12 x 12 x 6 inches. Small clutches no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" x 1" are allowed. Exceptions will be made for medical and baby needs.
Both ceremonies will stream live on the university’s website and YouTube channel.
For more information about NCCU’s 146th Commencement Exercises, visit nccu.edu/146th-commencement.