Obama Will Speak at Barnard College's Commencement

President Obama will speak at Barnard College's commencement on May 14, the New York Times reported on Saturday, citing White House and college officials.

“This is just an extraordinary opportunity for the college, a moment in time that will be unforgettable for the graduates and their parents,” the president of the New York college, Debora Spar, told the Times in an interview.

Jill Abramson, the executive editor of the Times, was to be the speaker, but those plans changed when the White House asked for Obama to speak at the ceremony.

Part of Columbia University, Barnard is a liberal arts college for women. It is no stranger to having high-profile commencement speakers. Recent speakers have included Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, actress Meryl Streep, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.