Max Gonzalez Burdick, a graduating student in the Master of Library and Information Science program at the San José State University School of Information, has received the 2023 Ken Haycock Award and served as the iSchool’s student speaker during the May 19 virtual convocation. The Ken Haycock Award is given annually to an MLIS student who “exhibits the most exceptional professional promise for leadership.” Burdick was nominated for the prestigious award by the iSchool faculty and received $1,000 and a citation.

Burdick considers it an honor to be “celebrated” with an award named after the former iSchool director and champion for library and information science education. Burdick further states that “the Ken Haycock Award means being a leader in my education, my career, and in life; to take initiative in creating library programs and services that are essential in developing an intercultural communication between people of all walks of life and in promoting a rich understanding of diversity in the best measurable way.”

Two industry professionals were also present for the iSchool’s virtual convocation as graduation speakers. Michelle Perera, ’96 MLIS, is currently the director of library and recreation services for the City of Sunnyvale. She has also served as the director of library and information services at the Pasadena City Library and library director at the City of Rancho Cucamonga.

The second speaker to address graduates was Jon Clay. Clay is currently the vice president of threat intelligence for Trend Micro and has “worked in the cybersecurity space for over 27 years.”  Clay is also a public speaker, discussing several topics across hundreds of talks including the “threat landscape, cybercriminal undergrounds” and “the attack lifecycle.”

The virtual convocation is one of the ways the School of Information celebrates the accomplishments of its graduates. Additionally, graduating students have the opportunity to participate in the virtual graduation website, where they can post and receive messages on their graduation profile. Those living near the Silicon Valley campus or wishing to travel to San José, may also participate in the university’s formal in-person commencement activities.