At most college graduations, the central speech is delivered by the commencement speaker, a person or panel selected by the institution to address the graduating class. This speaker may be a university leader, a distinguished alumnus or alumna, a noted expert, or a public figure chosen to highlight specific themes or inspire reflection. In this evergreen explainer, we clarify who gives a speech at a college graduation, how speakers are selected, and how these traditions vary by institution and degree level.
Primary Commencement Speaker
The individual who gives the main commencement address is commonly called the commencement speaker. In many U.S. universities, this role is filled by a senior academic officer such as the president, chancellor, or dean, particularly at public institutions and smaller colleges. At larger research universities, the speaker is often an external figure chosen to bring prestige, fresh perspective, or alignment with the institution’s themes for the year. The selection aims to balance inspiration, relevance, and the academic mission of the ceremony.
Selection Process and Criteria
Schools typically form a committee—often including faculty, administrators, and sometimes students—to recommend or choose the speaker. Criteria usually include prominence in a field, ability to communicate to a diverse audience, and alignment with institutional values. Committees may invite leaders in business, science, public service, the arts, or activism, and may opt for a panel to represent multiple viewpoints. The final decision is usually made months in advance to secure the speaker’s availability and plan logistics.
Selection Criteria at a Glance
| Criterion | Purpose | Typical Source |
|---|---|---|
| Relevance to graduates | Provide timely guidance | Institutional priorities |
| Public speaking ability | Engage large audience | Past recordings, reviews |
| Diversity of perspective | Broaden viewpoints | Committee recommendations |
| Logistical feasibility | Ensure attendance | Scheduling and travel |
Variations by Institution Type
At community colleges, the speaker is frequently a local leader, faculty member, or elected official who can speak to practical pathways and community impact. Liberal arts colleges may favor writers, historians, or philosophers whose work connects to a broad education. Professional schools sometimes choose practitioners and employers to address workforce readiness and ethical practice in specific fields.
Additional Speakers and Moments
In addition to the main commencement speaker, other graduation events may include a baccalaureate address, student valedictorian or class speaker, and honors or award presentations. Some institutions host separate ceremonies for specific schools or programs, each with its own featured speaker. These roles create a layered speech ecosystem that supports different audiences and traditions.
Common Roles in Graduation Ceremonies
- Commencement speaker: delivers the principal address
- Baccalaureate speaker: offers reflective or spiritual remarks
- Student speaker: represents the class perspective
- Honors presenter: introduces degree candidates or awardees
Traditions, Controversies, and Transparency
Choosing a commencement speaker can draw public attention and, occasionally, controversy when invited figures provoke disagreement. Many institutions now publish selection principles, communicate criteria in advance, and outline expectations for respectful dialogue. Transparency about invitations, compensation, and honoraria helps maintain trust while preserving the educational purpose of the ceremony.
FAQ
Reader questions
What is the difference between a commencement and a baccalaureate speaker?
The commencement speaker typically addresses the graduating class during the degree ceremony, while the baccalaureate speaker often leads a pre-graduation worship or reflection service with a more spiritual or contemplative focus.
Can students propose or vote on graduation speakers?
Some schools solicit nominations or feedback from students, but final selection authority usually rests with administration or a faculty-administration committee. Student input may be channeled through surveys or elected representatives.
Are honoraria always paid to graduation speakers?
Practice varies. Some speakers receive travel expenses and an honorarium, while others donate their time or participate as a service. Policies are often published in university event guidelines or personnel handbooks.