CANTON -- A former Dick's Sporting Goods top executive will be the keynote speaker at SUNY Canton's 108th Commencement Ceremony Saturday, May 7, at 10:30 a.m. in the Roos House Convocation, Athletic and Recreation Center.

John G. Duken, class of 1981, retired from his position as executive vice president of global merchandising for Dick's Sporting Goods in 2014 after 15 years of service. He helped lead the $6.8 billion Fortune 500 Corporation during a remarkable period of growth. Prior to working for Dick's, Duken spent several years working in leadership positions for electronics retail chains Circuit City and The Good Guys.

"We are pleased to welcome John back to campus as our keynote speaker this year," said SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran. "His professional success, volunteer endeavors and contributions to SUNY Canton serve as an inspiration to our graduates."

A native of Plattsburgh, Duken is a graduate of Mount Assumption Institute high school. After receiving an Associate Degree in Accounting from SUNY Canton, he went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California in 1984.

Since his retirement, Duken works as an independent consultant and travels extensively for his duties as a board member of several companies. His community service includes volunteer work for the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

In 2014 John and his wife, Colleen, established the Duken Family Scholarship, which is awarded annually to a SUNY Canton student from Clinton County who demonstrates a strong interest and passion for business.

"Being able to support other people's dreams and help them accomplish their goals is what life is all about," Duken said.

He resides in the Pittsburgh area with his wife and two daughters.