La Roche University Names Renowned Music Executive Dan Beck as 60th Commencement Speaker

PITTSBURGH, Mar. 5, 2026 – La Roche University is pleased to announce that Dan Beck, a visionary leader in the music and entertainment industry, will deliver the keynote address at the University’s 60th Commencement on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Mr. Beck will also receive the University’s highest distinction, an Honorary Doctorate of Business Administration, in recognition of his extraordinary career and contributions to the arts and community.

“Mr. Beck’s remarkable career as a writer, producer, and mentor has shaped generations of artists and inspired many people in the music industry and beyond,” said La Roche University President Dr. Christina Clark. “His dedication to innovation, creativity, and service reflects the values we hold dear at La Roche, and I am confident his message will resonate deeply with our graduates as they embark on their own journeys of leadership and impact.”

Mr. Beck’s career spans more than fifty years, primarily in marketing and developing music careers and products. He began writing for Record World magazine before establishing the first publicity department for a major record label in Nashville. He later spearheaded national publicity campaigns for Epic Records, managing marketing and logistics for legendary artists including Michael Jackson, Cyndi Lauper, Gloria Estefan, Pearl Jam, The Clash, and many more.

A pioneer in music marketing, Mr. Beck was at the forefront of innovations in music video production and licensing, and his award-winning hearing conservation film, Listen Smart, was featured at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and hundreds of high schools nationwide. He has co-written songs with Hall of Famers Dion DiMucci and Felix Cavaliere and executive produced the documentary Broke, which won “Best Vision in a Music Film” at the 2011 Nashville Film Festival. Mr. Beck’s memoir, You’ve Got Michael, was released in 2025 to critical acclaim.

Since 2013, Mr. Beck has served as the sole Trustee of the Music Performance Trust Fund, overseeing grants that support admission-free live music events throughout the U.S. and Canada. Under his leadership, the fund has expanded its annual budget to nearly $5 million, helping thousands of professional musicians continue performing and enriching communities nationwide.

“I am truly honored to join the La Roche University community for the 60th Commencement,” Mr. Beck said. “Celebrating this milestone with graduates reminds me how much creativity, collaboration, and mentorship can shape a meaningful career. I hope the Class of 2026 takes these lessons with them as they pursue their passions and make a difference in their communities and beyond.”

For more about Mr. Beck’s work, visit danbeckwrites.com.

The 2026 Commencement ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in the Kerr Fitness & Sports Center at La Roche’s campus in McCandless Township. The event will be livestreamed for students, family, faculty, alumni, and friends who cannot attend in person. Visit laroche.edu/commencement for more information.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

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