Boston Red Sox baseball legend David Ortiz will deliver New England Tech’s commencement address on Sunday, April 30, 2017.

Ortiz, affectionately known as “Big Papi,” is one of the most prolific hitters in baseball history and a fan favorite on and off the field. Known for his big smile and bigger plays, Ortiz is credited with helping the Red Sox to their first World Series win in 86 years and with leading the team to two more World Series championships. He hit an impressive 541 home runs during his career and is considered one of baseball’s all-time greatest clutch hitters for his ability to deliver under pressure. He was a galvanizing figure for the city of Boston following the Marathon bombings, encouraging the citizenry to “stay strong” and showing the way.

New England Tech will present Ortiz with his first honorary degree. During commencement, he will receive a doctor of humane letters in recognition of his leadership, and his work to help others, especially his efforts to help children in New England and the Dominican Republic who face significant health challenges.

New England Tech will also honor two prominent business and community leaders. Bob and Warren Galkin are chairman and vice chairman of Rhode Island’s NATCO Products Corporation, a home furnishings manufacturer and four-generation family business celebrating 100 years in operation. Together the brothers have steered their business through economic success and challenges and grown it into an international company with factories in China, Canada, Maine, Georgia and Rhode Island. They manufacture a variety of consumer products including curtains, carpets and wooden furniture, and sell them in major retail stores. They have also invested in companies as diverse as employment agencies, assisted living centers and indoor soccer fields. They will receive honorary doctorates during commencement in recognition of their work to improve the lives of Rhode Islanders.

They have been significant supporters of education, research and healthcare. Warren set up endowment funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Warwick and spearheaded building and remodeling of the clubs. Bob and his late wife Wini have gifted hospitals, colleges and historic preservation societies. The brothers are working together to turn the John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier into a Rhode Island museum. Both are dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation.

This year marks New England Institute of Technology’s 76th commencement. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. at the Dunkin Donuts Center, located at 1 La Salle Square, Providence.