University News

Larry Papasan, a director of Smith & Nephew Inc., will address 1,545 graduates at the University of Memphis' spring Commencement Saturday, May 7. Ceremonies begin at 3 p.m. at FedEx Forum. The total includes 1,022 undergraduates, 490 master's degrees, 10 education specialist degrees and 23 doctoral degrees

Papasan joined Smith & Nephew in 1991 as president of the Orthopedic Division and retired at the end of 2002. During this 11 1/2-year period, the division grew in sales from $300 million to $650 million while increasing profitability more than 15 percent each year. Papasan was responsible for research and development, manufacturing, marketing, sales and administrative functions during his tenure as president. Prior to joining Smith & Nephew, he was president of Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division from 1984-1991. He was employed with MLG&W for 28 years.

Papasan currently is chairman of the board of trustees of the University of Memphis Foundation and the U of M's Board of Visitors.

He graduated from Mississippi State University in 1963 with a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering. Papasan has been active in the Memphis community, serving as general campaign chairman of United Way, president of the Kiwanis Club and of Junior Achievement. He also is a board member of the Plough Foundation, Le Bonheur Hospital Foundation and the Memphis Biotech Foundation.

The Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law will award 144 doctor of jurisprudence degrees in a separate ceremony Sunday, May 8, at 2 p.m. at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts.

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