Jacqueline Saturn ’90, a highly regarded music executive and president of Virgin Music Group North America, will deliver the alumni keynote address at the 2026 College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) | Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs Undergraduate Convocation at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, in the JMA Wireless Dome.

After graduating from the Maxwell School with a bachelor’s degree in political science, Saturn built a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, rising from an entry-level assistant to one of the most respected leaders in global music.

“It’s an honor to join Syracuse University in celebrating the A&S and Maxwell graduates at this year’s undergraduate convocation,” said Saturn. “These students are entering a world full of opportunity and transformation, and I’m inspired by the creativity, drive and perspective they bring as the next generation of leaders.”

A Nashville native with music in her blood, Saturn came to Syracuse already captivated by live performance. Growing up in Music City, she had never known a bar without a live band—a contrast that made the campus concert scene all the more electric for her. She threw herself into student life, participating in student government and Greek life. “I got a taste of everything,” she said. “Syracuse opened my eyes to so many incredible experiences.”

At Maxwell, Saturn was challenged to consider a wide range of perspectives and to consider people, organizations and communities through an interdisciplinary lens. “My time as a student at Syracuse University’s Maxwell School prepared me for my career in the music business in ways I never could have imagined,” she said. “My passion for utilizing political and legal systems and structures to advocate for and protect people’s rights guides many of the most important decisions I make.”

Saturn, who resides in Los Angeles with her family, began her career at Epic Records in 1993 and spent 20 years with the label, ultimately serving as senior vice president of radio promotion. In that role, she led campaigns for artists including Pearl Jam, Rage Against the Machine, Oasis and Incubus.