Actor, Director Elizabeth Banks Announced as University of Pennsylvania Commencement Speaker

Actor, director, and producer Elizabeth Banks will be the commencement speaker at the University of Pennsylvania's spring graduation. The university made the announcement on Monday, March 24.

Banks, a 1996 graduate of the university in West Philadelphia, is known for her roles in "The Hunger Games" franchise, "Love & Mercy," and "W," in addition to her recurring roles in "30 Rock" and "Modern Family." She also directed "Pitch Perfect 2," Charlie's Angels" (2019), and "Cocaine Bear." She also starred in and produced "Pitch Perfect 3." 

Banks met her husband, Max Handelman, while they were attending Penn. The couple co-founded Brownstone Productions, which has produced films such as "Pitch Perfect," "Shrill," and "Bottoms." 

Banks will also receive an honorary doctor of arts degree at the graduation on May 19 at Franklin Field. 

"Since graduating from Penn's School of Arts and Sciences in 1996, Banks has made her mark in film and television not only as a highly respected performer but also as a talented director and successful producer," Penn President J. Larry Jameson said in a statement released by the university. "She has also been an outspoken advocate for important issues, such as gender equity and health care for veterans, and it will be an honor to welcome her back to campus in May."

Lonnie G. Bunch III, Lene Vestergaard Hau, and Barbara D. Savage will also receive honorary degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. According to details on Penn's commencement website, the ceremony will be live-streamed.