Kent State University alumnis and Woodmere, OH, resident Ben Holbert gave the commencement speech to the University of Phoenix Cleveland campus this summer.

Holbert is a Cleveland native who worked as a local TV news reporter and TV news anchor for several of his hometown stations. He also served as chief communications officer for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

Holbert earned his master's degree in business administration and was chosen to share his story with his classmates after returning to school at the age of 52.

"Despite a successful career and numerous journalism awards I wanted more," he said in a press release.

He won four Emmy awards at WUAB-TV and has been recognized by the Akron Broadcasters Hall of Fame as personality of the year.

Holbert spoke to more than 400 graduates during the university's June commencement.