Nearly 150 students will participate in Troy University commencement exercises at the Dothan Civic Center on Sunday, Dec. 17.

The event begins at 3 p.m. and features 147 students receiving degrees.

The keynote speaker is retired Army Brig. Gen. Timothy J. Edens, who currently works for AECOM/URS Managed Services as the Director for Aviation Operations, Maintenance and Sustainment Sector, Mission Readiness Group.

He has served and led in a diverse range of positions from platoon-level through one-star field operating agency-level command, reporting directly to the Army Chief of Staff.

Prior to joining URS, he served as the Commanding General and Director of Army Safety, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center (USACRC). He directed the Army Safety Program, developed strategy, policy, regulations, risk management programs, and communicated all to the Army to protect soldiers and civilians. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades culminating with the award of the Army Distinguished Service Medal.

Edens has been married 33 years to the former Leslie Brassard, from Oxford, Massachusetts. They have five children, two daughters-in-law and one son-in-law; and two grandchildren. He lives in Daleville.