This post was written by Hatchet reporter Juliana Tamayo.

Del. Donna Christenson, D-Virgin Islands will speak to School of Medicine and Health Sciences graduates at their May 20 commencement.

Christenson graduated from GW’s medical school in 1970 before becoming the first female physician to serve in Congress when she was elected in 1996.

Christenson cannot vote on legislation but can participate in debates as the only delegate from the U.S. Virgin Islands. As first vice-chair for the Congressional Black Caucus, she works closely on minority health issues and women’s issues.

William P. Magee, Jr., co-founder and chief executive officer of Operation Smile and an alumnus of the medical school, spoke at last year’s commencement.