Commencement Speaker

The university seeks to invite individuals who have demonstrated excellence in their fields and who have made significant contributions to society and who represent various backgrounds and viewpoints.

Submit a recommendation

University Commencement Speaker Protocol 

1. Purpose

This document outlines the process for selecting and managing external speakers invited to deliver the keynote address at the university's commencement ceremony. The goal is to ensure that speakers align with the university’s values, inspire graduates, and represent excellence.

2. Scope

This protocol applies to all external speakers invited to give the keynote address at university commencement ceremonies, including honorary degree recipients who may also serve as speakers.

3. Selection Criteria

3.1. Qualifications

The university seeks to invite individuals who have demonstrated excellence in their fields and who have made significant contributions to society and who represent various backgrounds and viewpoints. Potential speakers should meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Achievement: Recognized for significant accomplishments in a field such as academia, business, arts, science, government, activism, or philanthropy.
• Inspiration: Capable of delivering an inspiring, relevant, and engaging message to graduates.
• Alignment with Values: The speaker’s work and public positions should align with the university's mission and core values.
• Speakers may not currently hold public office or currently be running for office, individuals with controversial or polarizing histories, individuals representing lobby groups, or individuals under legal investigation.

4. Selection Process

4.1. Commencement Speaker Committee

• Composition: Under the direction of the President’s Office, a committee will be formed annually to recommend potential commencement speakers . The committee will consist of representatives from the following groups:
• Faculty
• Staff
• Students
• Alumni Staff 
• University administration
• Role: The committee will develop a list of potential speakers and submit recommendations to the university president.

4.2. Student Involvement

• Students will have an opportunity to suggest potential speakers through a formal submission process. The commencement speaker committee will review these suggestions.

4.3. Final Decision

• The final decision regarding the selection of the commencement speaker rests with the university president.

5. Invitation and Agreement

5.1. Formal Invitation

• Once a speaker has been selected, a formal invitation will be extended by the President’s Office. The invitation will outline the expectations for the speaker’s role and the nature of the event.

5.2. Compensation and Expenses

• Compensation: In recognition of the speaker’s time and effort, compensation may be offered, subject to the university’s budgetary guidelines.
• Travel and Accommodation: The university will cover the reasonable travel and accommodation expenses of the speaker. This will include:
• Round-trip travel arrangements.
• Lodging for the duration of the commencement events.
• Ground transportation and meals as needed.

5.3. Contract or Agreement

• A formal contract or letter of agreement will be issued to the speaker. This document will confirm logistical details such as travel arrangements, compensation, and any other terms agreed upon. It will also outline the expectations regarding the speech, including the length and content.

6. Speech Guidelines

6.1. Content

Speakers are expected to deliver a speech that:

• Is inspirational and relevant to the graduating class.
• Emphasizes universal values of integrity, community, inclusivity, teamwork, shared responsibility, and learning.
• Avoids divisive political or religious content
• Respects the diversity of the graduating class and is inclusive in tone.

6.2. Time Limit

The keynote address should not exceed 15 minutes, ensuring the commencement ceremony remains on schedule.

6.3. Speech Review

Speakers will be asked to submit an outline or summary of their speech for review prior to the event (no later than 14 days before the event)  to ensure appropriateness and alignment with university standards.

7. Logistics and Event Coordination

7.1. Travel and Hospitality

• The university will assign an event coordinator to assist the speaker with travel logistics, lodging arrangements, and on-campus hospitality during their visit.

7.2. Security Arrangements

• If necessary, security arrangements will be made for the speaker, particularly if they have a high public profile. The level of security will be determined in consultation with campus security and local law enforcement as needed.

7.3. Media and Publicity

• The university’s communications department will coordinate any media coverage related to the speaker’s appearance, including press releases and interviews. Speakers will be advised on media opportunities in advance.

8. Contingencies

8.1. Cancellation or Replacement

In the event that a speaker must cancel their participation due to unforeseen circumstances, the university will:

• Attempt to identify a suitable replacement from the pool of previous candidates.
• Make alternative arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the ceremony, which may include a senior faculty or administrative leader delivering the keynote address.

8.2. Managing Controversy

If a speaker generates significant controversy within the university community, the commencement speaker committee and administration will review the concerns and determine whether to proceed with the speaker. Decisions will be made in accordance with the university’s commitment to free speech and academic freedom, balanced with community values.

9. Public Communication

9.1. Announcement

• The commencement speaker will be publicly announced prior to the ceremony. Announcements will be made through official university channels, including the website, press releases, and email communication to graduating students.

9.2. Speaker Bio and Introduction

• A biography of the speaker, highlighting their achievements and relevance to the commencement, will be included in the commencement program and on the university’s website.