Atlantic City, N.J. — Professional sports executive and Stockton University alumnus Dave Sholler ’06 will be the keynote speaker at the 2024 Commencement Ceremonies on May 10 at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall.

Sholler, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies, will speak at both baccalaureate ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

“As a first-generation student, Dave is a testament to the power of a Stockton University degree, so it’s fitting that he will deliver the keynote for my first commencement as president,” Stockton President Joe Bertolino said. “It’s an honor for me to welcome him back to the Osprey family.”

Sholler currently serves as chief communications officer for the Philadelphia 76ers and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE). He previously served as executive vice president, senior vice president and vice president of communications for the 76ers and as vice president of public relations and athlete marketing for Ultimate Fighting Championship. 

HBSE is a leading sports and entertainment company, with a focus on inspiring possibilities in people and enhancing the communities of which they are a part. The company manages and operates premier professional venues and sports teams, including the 76ers, New Jersey Devils, Delaware Blue Coats and Utica Comets.

“It is a tremendous honor to serve as the commencement speaker. Born in Atlantic City and raised in South Jersey, I have so many wonderful memories from attending and working events at the iconic Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall,” Sholler said. “The opportunity to speak at Stockton’s commencement ceremony at such a historic venue is incredibly special.”

Sholler has given back to Stockton in various ways since graduating. The Egg Harbor Township native is a regular presence on campus, having shared his Stockton story with prospective students at Experience Stockton Day, and mentored students interested in pursuing careers in communications. Sholler often credits Stockton’s supportive faculty and strong internship program with setting him on his path to success. 

“Stockton made a lasting impact on my life — personally and professionally — and I would not be where I am today without the guidance and mentorship of the university’s amazing professors, administrators and staff. This is such an important day for the graduates and their families, and I’m truly humbled to participate,” he said.

More information about Commencement can be found at stockton.edu/commencement. 

                                             #          #          #
Media contacts:
Stacey Clapp
Director of Strategic Communications
Stacey.Clapp@stockton.edu
609-626-3645
609-412-8069
stockton.edu/media

Mark Melhorn
Associate Director of News and Media Relations
Mark.Melhorn@stockton.edu
609-652-4593
609-569-6026
stockton.edu/media

Stockton University
Stockton University is ranked among the top public universities in the nation. Our more than 9,000 students can choose to live and learn on the 1,600-acre wooded main campus in the Pinelands National Reserve in South Jersey and at our coastal residential campus just steps from the beach and Boardwalk in Atlantic City. The university offers more than 160 undergraduate and graduate programs. Learn more at stockton.edu.