'Parks and Rec' actor to speak at Union College graduation

Graduating from Union in 2003, Schwartz is best known for his roles in "Parks and Recreation" and the "Sonic the Hedgehog" films.

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Union College announced that Emmy-Award winning actor and comedian Ben Schwartz will be the featured speaker for the school's 2024 commencement. The ceremony is scheduled for June 16 at 10 a.m.

Graduating from Union in 2003, Schwartz double majored in anthropology and psychology. He is best known for his role as Jean-Ralphio Saperstein on "Parks and Recreation" and as the voice of Sonic in the "Sonic the Hedgehog" films.

Schwartz shared a jovial statement on his return to the college as part of the announcement posted on Union's website. "I am so excited and honored to come back to Union (when it's not winter) for Commencement," Schwartz said. "I can finally read aloud my 100-page anthropology senior thesis about how 'sports are a microcosm of society' that I haven't looked at since the day I handed it in 21 years ago."

"We are delighted and honored to welcome Ben back to campus," said Union College president David Harris. "Since his days honing his craft in an improv group at Union, Ben has shared his remarkable talents and creativity with a worldwide audience in a number of memorable roles on television and in theaters. We look forward to what promises to be an entertaining and inspiring message."

The commencement will take place at Union College's Hull Plaza. The school's Class of 2024 is made up of about 460 students.