Valley Forge Military Academy Announces 2025 Commencement Keynote Speaker

Valley Forge Military Academy is proud to announce that Marcus Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence, will serve as the keynote speaker for the Academy’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony.

The graduation will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. on the Parade Field, located on the campus of Valley Forge Military Academy & College.

Marcus Allen is a dynamic and accomplished executive with more than two decades of leadership spanning both the nonprofit and private sectors. As the first Black Chief Executive Officer in Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence’s 110-year history, Marcus has redefined the organization’s impact, raising over $100 million to expand programs serving more than 200,000 children across the Greater Philadelphia region. His strategic vision has positioned BBBSI as one of the most innovative and effective affiliates in the national network.

In addition to his professional and academic accomplishments, Mr. Allen proudly served in the Army National Guard from 1989 to 1995. As a former Army soldier (13 Bravo – “King of Battle”), he follows a proud legacy of military service among the men in his family and remains deeply committed to honoring the values and discipline instilled during his time in uniform.

Beyond his nonprofit leadership, Marcus brings deep experience in corporate and philanthropic governance, having served on both nonprofit and for-profit boards. He is currently a board member of the United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey and the Public Health Management Corporation which serves over 350,000 clients annually. He was also appointed to the Pennsylvania State Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, advising on critical civil rights and equity matters.

Marcus began his career in the private sector, working in corporate operations and leading entrepreneurial ventures prior to entering the nonprofit space. He holds an MBA in Technology Management, is a proud graduate of Temple University, and is a two-time inductee into the Paine College Sports Hall of Fame. Before his business and philanthropic career, Marcus played professional basketball internationally, an experience that continues to inspire his leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

Valley Forge Military Academy is honored to welcome Mr. Allen as its 2025 commencement speaker, recognizing his lifelong service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community and country.