University of Minnesota creative writing professor Julie Schumacher will replace Jim Burke, producer of the Oscar-winning film “Green Book,” as the College of Liberal Arts’ 2019 commencement speaker.
According to an email sent to 2019 CLA graduates Monday, Burke withdrew due to “family health matters.” Burke’s appointment as speaker was met with criticism earlier this year by students who disapproved of “Green Book’s” portrayal of race issues.
Schumacher has written ten books and received numerous writing awards, including the Thurber Prize for American Humor. Schumacher began teaching at the University in 1996 and instructs an array of writing courses.
This is a breaking news report. More information will be added as it becomes available.
