Dr. Johnnie Cordell Breed to Keynote Columbia College Commencement
May 2, 2014
COLUMBIA, SC – May 2, 2014—Columbia College is proud to announce Dr. Johnnie Cordell Breed as the 2014 undergraduate commencement speaker. Dr. Breed is an entrepreneur whose expertise in transportation logistics and business management has made a global impact.
Dr. Breed founded Ground Transportation Services in 1974, developing and implementing bulk ticketing for travel. She then turned to supplying transportation management for the U.S. Department of Defense and later helped pioneer the automotive airbag industry through her company Transcor, Inc.
Dr. Breed served Columbia College as a Trustee and was awarded an honorary doctorate in business and economics in 1990. She was also awarded the Columbia College Medallion in 2006, the highest honor awarded by the College. Her service and commitment led to the creation of the Johnnie Cordell Breed Leadership Center for Women at Columbia College.
“Dr. Breed is a wonderful example of the courage, motivation and leadership that characterizes Columbia College graduates,” said President Beth Dinndorf. “She is a visionary and an entrepreneur without parallel, and has built multiple businesses based on her keen ability to recognize the large potential in what others see as a small idea.”
Columbia College’s undergraduate commencement will include 228 bachelor’s degree candidates and will take place Saturday, May 4, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. the Township Auditorium in Columbia. Commencement exercises for 35 candidates for master’s degrees will take place Saturday, May 4, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. at College Place United Methodist Church in Columbia.
About Columbia College
Recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a best value institution, Columbia College provides students with academically challenging programs, experiential learning, and intellectual and professional competencies. Founded 160 years ago by the United Methodist Church as a women’s liberal arts college, Columbia College also offers evening, graduate and online programs serving both women and men. Learn more at columbiasc.edu or connect with @columbiakoalas.
