Students having fun a a football game

Student Commencement Speaker
Application Guidelines

The student commencement speaker is a proud tradition of Temple University. During the spring semester a graduating senior is selected to address all graduates at the University Commencement Exercises.  The honor is among the highest distinctions a student can receive.

The Student Commencement Speaker will be selected based on the following criteria:

  • Graduating senior (January 2012 or May 2012) with a minimum GPA of 3.00.
  • Is a representative of the graduating class who has made a constructive social and/or educational impact on the Temple University community.
  • Is well spoken and able to capture the celebration of this capstone event within the time allowed (4-5 minutes).

Application process

The Applicant must:
  1. Complete the attached information sheet.
  2. Submit a written proposed 4-5 minute speech.
  3. Submit a one-page personal statement.  Provide information about yourself (academic awards, membership in student organizations & honor societies, community service & involvement, career goals) as well as your reason for wishing to represent your class as Commencement Student Speaker.
  4. Submit a resume.
  5. Include two letters of recommendation (e.g., dean, professors, employers and/or community service representatives).  The letters of recommendations must reflect the applicant’s strongest qualities.

Selected applicants will be required to present their speeches to the Student Award Selection Committee. Once chosen, the student speaker will work with the Office of the Dean of Students to rehearse the speech in preparation for Commencement.

DEADLINE:  Tuesday, February 14, 2012
RETURN TO the Academic Dean's Office of your School or College

Other important documents: