Palm Beach Atlantic University Welcomes Commencement Speaker Michele Rigby Assad

Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is thrilled to welcome Michele Rigby Assad, a 1995 PBA graduate and former CIA intelligence officer, as the 2026 commencement speaker. This honor reflects both her remarkable career accomplishments and continued connection to the University.

Assad's story is ang example of how global perspective, courage, and purpose can shape an extraordinary career. After graduating from PBA, Assad went on to serve as an undercover intelligence officer with the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, specializing in counterterrorism in some of the world's most volatile regions.

Assad credits her early international experiences, including mission trips to Egypt, Russia, Ukraine, and a study abroad program in Cairo, with igniting her deep interest in global cultures. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for her to enter the CIA, alongside her husband, Joseph Assad. Joseph, also a PBA graduate, has his own remarkable story, having been persecuted for his Christian faith in Egypt before receiving a full scholarship to attend PBA.

They both credit PBA with providing life-changing opportunities that served as the springboard to their meaningful careers.

Courageous Career Choices

Assad's career with the CIA coincided with a pivotal moment in history. Her husband began his work just months before the attacks on September 11, 2001, while she began training shortly after, earning a master's degree in Contemporary Arab Studies from Georgetown University. Together, they spent 10 years conducting counterterrorism operations in the Middle East. Reflecting on her experiences, Assad emphasizes that ordinary individuals are capable of extraordinary actions when they refuse to let fear dictate their choices.

Following her career in the CIA, Assad transitioned into roles as a security consultant and humanitarian advocate. She now dedicates much of her work to supporting persecuted communities, particularly Christians facing oppression around the world. Her commitment to service and global engagement continues to reflect the values that first took root during her years at PBA.

Awards and Authorship

Assad has received much recognition for her work and impact, including the Women of Distinction Humanitarian Award for her commitment to international diplomacy, exemplary leadership, and unwavering dedication to supporting PBA over the years.

Assad is also an accomplished author, and her experiences inform her ability to deal with the most challenging people, including terrorists and insurgents, which are highlighted in her bestselling memoir, "Breaking Cover: My Secret Life in the CIA and What it Taught Me about What's Worth Fighting For." Her second book, "Get Off the X: CIA Secrets for Conquering Obstacles and Achieving Your Life's Mission," encourages readers to move beyond fear and comfort zones to take decisive action in pursuit of their purpose.

Through her career, writing, and humanitarian efforts, Michele Rigby Assad continues to demonstrate how faith, preparation, and courage work together to create a life of meaningful impact.

Learn more about PBA's upcoming commencement ceremony at https://www.pba.edu/offices/registrar/commencement/.