Austin Slater ’76 and Tyson Bagent ’22 to Speak at Shepherd University’s 153rd Commencement

ISSUED: 23 April 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University will welcome two accomplished alumni back to campus to inspire the Class of 2026 during its 153rd commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in the Butcher Center.

Austin J. Slater Jr. '76, a business leader and longtime champion of Shepherd, will deliver the address at the graduate ceremony, which begins at 10 a.m. Tyson Bagent '23, quarterback for the Chicago Bears, will speak at the undergraduate ceremony, which begins at 1:50 p.m.

Both speakers will also be awarded honorary degrees in recognition of their achievements and contributions.

Austin J. Slater Jr. '76

Austin J. Slater '76 is a business leader with more than four decades of experience in the energy sector.

Slater retired in 2020 after serving 18 years as president and CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative. His career also includes senior leadership roles with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, where he continues to serve as an instructor, and Tideland EMC. He served as chairman of ACES Power Marketing and was a founding member of the National Renewables Cooperative Organization.

A strong advocate for higher education and institutional leadership, Slater currently serves as vice chair of Shepherd University's Board of Governors and as chair of the Shepherd University Foundation Board. Slater also served in leadership roles with the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, the Southern Maryland Workforce Investment Board, the College of Southern Maryland Board, the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond (Baltimore Branch), and the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center Board.

Slater was inducted into the Maryland Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame and named CEO of the Year by the College of Southern Maryland.

Slater and his wife, Carmen, have been longtime volunteers and licensed resource parents, opening their home to children in need. They became legal guardians of a teenager, who had lost his parents, and now serves as a sergeant in the U.S. Army and is a father of three children.

Tyson Bagent '22

Tyson Bagent '22 is a professional football player for the Chicago Bears.

During his collegiate career, Bagent established himself as one of Shepherd's most accomplished athletes. In 2022, he was awarded the Harlon Hill Trophy, given annually to the nation's top Division II football player. He was widely recognized for his leadership and excellence both on and off the field, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, faculty, fellow students, and fans.

Following graduation, Bagent signed with the National Football League (NFL), proudly carrying the spirit of Shepherd and the state of West Virginia onto the national stage.

As an alumnus, Bagent remains deeply connected to Shepherd. He continues to mentor young athletes, support the University community, and give back to the institution that helped shape his path. His enduring commitment reflects the values that define Shepherd - excellence, purpose, and service to others.

Bagent's story is one of perseverance, character, and loyalty to one's roots. His accomplishments serve as a lasting source of inspiration for Shepherd graduates and future generations of Rams.

Tickets are required to attend. Both ceremonies are livestreamed on the University's 153rd Commencement webpage.

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