CHESTER, PA (5/14/04) - Saint Joseph's head coach Phil Martelli will deliver the commencement address at his alma mater, Widener University, Saturday, May 15 at 9:45 a.m.

Martelli completed his ninth season as the Hawks' head coach while guiding Saint Joseph's to its finest season in school history, compiling a 30-2 record and a berth in the NCAA Elite Eight. The Hawks went 27-0 during the regular season, recording the best start in school and Atlantic 10 history, and setting the Saint Joseph's record for winning streak. In recognition of this tremendous coaching feat and his unwavering commitment to the game, Martelli captured all of the coach of the year awards, including the 2004 Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year and the Henry Iba Award for the nation's top coach - presented by the United States Basketball Writers Association.

"By leading his team to unprecedented heights this season, Coach Martelli has demonstrated the true spirit of leadership, inspiring his players to achieve excellence," said James T. Harris III, Ph.D., president of Widener University.

"I am proud to have such a distinguished and successful Philadelphian address our newest graduates," stated Harris. "Mr. Martelli has proven himself a leader both on and off the court. His tireless commitment to the community is infectious - a true testament to his character. Martelli is an inspiration and model for us all." A doctorate of Public Service will be bestowed on Martelli for his altruistic work in the community and his positive influence as a teacher, coach and role model.

Martelli began his collegiate coaching career in 1978 at his alma mater, Widener University, where he played point guard on the Pioneers' 1974-75 and 1975-76 NCAA Tournament teams. A native of the Philadelphia area, Martelli actively gives back to his community. As an integral part of the "Philly Six," six local college basketball coaches that head the Philadelphia Chapter of Coaches vs. Cancer, Martelli continually raises awareness and increases resources for the fight against the disease. Since the organization's inception in 1993, the Philly Six have helped raise over $16 million for cancer research, tobacco education and patient services for the American Cancer Society.

Former U.S. Representative and accomplished educator, William Gray, will also be awarded an honorary degree of Public Service. He currently serves as president and chief executive officer of the College Fund/UNCF (United Negro College Fund), a position he has held since 1991. In 1999 Gray was cited by Ebony Magazine as one of the 100 most important African-Americans in the world. Four years earlier, after serving as special advisor to President Clinton on Haiti, Gray was honored with the Medal of Honor.