Van Jones, American activist, social justice expert and CNN contributor, will be this year’s graduation commencement speaker, according to a press release from Loyola University New Orleans’ department of Public Affairs.

The press release noted Jones has an educational background from Yale University, and has led many organizations in social and environmental projects, including Color of Change and Green for All. He also worked under President Barack Obama as a special advisor and primary advocate for the Green Jobs Act.

“Van Jones has had a long and meaningful career that has had tremendous impact on issues that affect us all,” Rev. Kevin Wildes, S.J., said. “At Loyola University New Orleans, we teach our students — and encourage our graduates — to be civic-minded. We ask them to ‘seek what matters most,’ to seek justice for others, and to deploy their skills and talents to help better the world around them. Throughout his lifetime and from the heart, Van Jones has worked to advance and fulfill these values.”

The press release also announced Hon. Madeleine Landrieu will be the commencement speaker for Loyola University’s College of Law ceremony.

The undergraduate students’ graduation ceremony will take place the morning of Saturday, May 13, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The law school ceremony will take place later that evening at the Superdome.