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16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression

Some of the most impactful and inspiring sentiments are shared during graduation speeches delivered by the leaders we look up to. Graduation speeches from celebrities , entrepreneurs, authors and other influential thinkers are motivational, inspiring, thought-provoking and just might make you reach for the nearest tissue. After four years of hard work, stress, and exhausting self-discovery, lucky graduates are privy to a life-changing speech to top it all off.

Here, we rounded up up 16 of the best graduation speeches of all time, including words of wisdom from Natalie Portman, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and more.

1. Steve Jobs: Stanford, 2005

"You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it."

2. Michelle Obama: Tuskegee University, 2015

"I've found that this journey has been incredibly freeing. Because no matter what happened, I had the piece of mind knowing that all of the chatter, the name-calling, the doubting...all of it was just noise. It did not define me, it didn't change who I was, and most importantly, it couldn't hold me back."

3. Natalie Portman: Harvard, 2015

"I just directed my first film. I was completely unprepared, but my own ignorance to my own limitations looked like confidence and got me into the director's chair. Once there, I had to figure it all out, and my belief that I could handle these things, contrary to all evidence of my ability to do so was half the battle. The other half was very hard work. The experience was the deepest and most meaningful one of my career."

4. Amy Poehler: Harvard University, 2011

"What I have discovered is this: You can't do it alone … Listen. Say 'yes.' Live in the moment. Make sure you play with people who have your back. Make big choices early and often."

5. Meryl Streep: Barnard College, 2010

"This is your time and it feels normal to you but really there is no normal. There's only change, and resistance to it and then more change."

6. David Foster Wallace: Kenyon College, 2005

"Twenty years after my own graduation, I have come gradually to understand that the liberal arts cliché about teaching you how to think is actually shorthand for a much deeper, more serious idea: learning how to think really means learning how to exercise some control over how and what you think. It means being conscious and aware enough to choose what you pay attention to and to choose how you construct meaning from experience. Because if you cannot exercise this kind of choice in adult life, you will be totally hosed. Think of the old cliché about quote the mind being an excellent servant but a terrible master."

7. Barack Obama: Howard University, 2016

"You have to go through life with more than just passion for change; you need a strategy. I’ll repeat that. I want you to have passion, but you have to have a strategy. Not just awareness, but action. Not just hashtags, but votes."

8. Kerry Washington: George Washington University, 2013

"You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that can write the story that you were meant to tell."

9. Conan O'Brien: Dartmouth College, 2011

"There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized. Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality … Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."

10. J.K. Rowling: Harvard, 2008

"I stopped pretending to be anything than what I was. My greatest fear had been realized. I had an old typewriter and a big idea. Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life."

11. Oprah Winfrey: Harvard University, 2013

"Learn from every mistake because every experience, encounter, and particularly your mistakes are there to teach you and force you into being more who you are. And then figure out what is the next right move. And the key to life is to develop an internal moral, emotional G.P.S. that can tell you which way to go."

12. Joss Whedon: Wesleyan University, 2013

"You have, which is a rare thing, that ability and the responsibility to listen to the dissent in yourself, to at least give it the floor, because it is the key—not only to consciousness–but to real growth. To accept duality is to earn identity. And identity is something that you are constantly earning. It is not just who you are. It is a process that you must be active in. It's not just parroting your parents or the thoughts of your learned teachers. It is now more than ever about understanding yourself so you can become yourself."

13. George Saunders: Syracuse University, 2013

"Do all the other things, the ambitious things … Travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having it tested for monkey poop)—but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness."

14. Nora Ephron: Wellesley College, 1996

"Be the heroine of your life, not the victim."

15. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Wellesley College, 2015

"As you graduate, as you deal with your excitement and your doubts today, I urge you to try and create the world you want to live in. Minister to the world in a way that can change it. Minister radically in a real, active, practical, get your hands dirty way."

16. Admiral William H. McRaven: University of Texas at Austin, 2014

"If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right."

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15 Inspiring Celebrity Commencement Speeches

By rudie obias | jun 4, 2016.

With graduation season well underway, it’s important that recent grads start their journey into the real world with strong words of encouragement and advice. Here are 15 famous people who gave inspiring and rousing commencement speeches.

1. OPRAH WINFREY // STANFORD UNIVERSITY

In 2008, Oprah Winfrey gave a 28-minute commencement speech at Stanford University. She spoke about her early career as a local news anchor in Nashville and her personal and professional journey of failure, success, and finding happiness in life.

"The secret I've learned to getting ahead is being open to the lessons," Winfrey said. "It's being able to walk through life eager and open to self-improvement and that which is going to best help you evolve, because that's really why we're here—to evolve as human beings. I believe that there is a lesson in almost everything that you do and every experience. Getting the lesson is how you move forward, is how you enrich your spirit. And trust me; I know that inner wisdom is more precious than wealth. The more you spend it, the more you gain."

2. STEVE JOBS // STANFORD UNIVERSITY

In 2005, Steve Jobs was the commencement speaker at Stanford University. He spoke about his work, but emphasized his failures in life, including getting fired at Apple and starting NeXT Computer. Jobs believed that failing at life made you better at working and living it.

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work,” Jobs said. “And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”

3. JON STEWART // COLLEGE OF WILLIAM & MARY

Twenty years after talk show host/comedian Jon Stewart graduated from the College of William and Mary, he returned as the commencement speaker for the graduating class of 2004. He spoke about his time at the Virginia college and offered up advice about the future.

“Love what you do. Get good at it. Competence is a rare commodity in this day and age. And let the chips fall where they may,” Stewart told the crowd. “College is something you complete. Life is something you experience. So don’t worry about your grade, or the results or success.”

4. STEPHEN COLBERT // WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY

Stephen Colbert gave the commencement speech to the Class of 2015 at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. It was about six months after he finished his nine-year run as host of Comedy Central's The Colbert Report and the talk show host/comedian compared his transition to The Late Show on CBS to graduating from college and entering the real world.

“It’s time to say goodbye to the person we’ve become, who we’ve worked so hard to perfect, and to make some crucial decisions in becoming who we’re going to be,” Colbert told the graduating class. “For me, I’ll have to figure out how to do an hour-long show every night. And you at some point will have to sleep. I am told the Adderall wears off eventually.”

Colbert also began and ended his speech with references to Mad Max: Fury Road , by telling the graduates, “May you ride eternal, shiny, and chrome.”

5. KATIE COURIC // UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN—MADISON

Katie Couric delivered the commencement speech at the University of Wisconsin—Madison in 2015, where she urged the students to “work hard, and then work even harder ... There may be days when you’ll say to yourself, ‘I can’t. I literally can’t even.’ But you can! You can even!”

6. JOHN GREEN // KENYON COLLEGE

In 2000, author and YouTube star (and mental_floss contributor) John Green graduated from Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. He recently returned to his alma mater to give the commencement speech for the graduating Class of 2016. During his speech, Green admitted that being an adult is terrible.

“All of it, actually—from the electricity bills to the job where your co-workers call themselves teammates even though this isn’t football for God’s sake—all these so-called horrors of adulthood emerge from living in a world where you are inextricably connected to other people to whom you must learn to listen,” Green said. “And that turns out to be great news. And if you can remember that conversations about grass length and the weather are really conversations about how we are going to get through, and how we are going to get through together, they become not just bearable but almost kind of transcendent.”

7. MAYA RUDOLPH // TULANE UNIVERSITY

In 2015, Maya Rudolph gave the commencement speech at Tulane University in New Orleans. The Saturday Night Live alum did her famous impressions of Oprah Winfrey and Beyoncé, while giving the Class of 2015 some words of wisdom about creating your own life and destiny.

"During senior year, my father asked me what I planned to do after I graduated, and I told him 'I want to be on Saturday Night Live ,'" she shared. "But until that moment, I never wanted to admit that being on SNL was my dream. I never wanted to admit that I was a thespian ... So if I must give any of you advice it would be say yes. Say yes, and create your own destiny."

8. JIM CARREY // MAHARISHI UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT

In 2014, Jim Carrey surprised the graduating class at Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, Iowa with a touching and emotional commencement speech about his father. He implored graduates to choose their own paths in life and to not settle out of practicality. Carrey also received an honorary doctorate for his achievements in comedy, art, acting, and philanthropy.

“The decisions we make in this moment are based in either love or fear,” Carrey told the students. “So many of us chose our path out of fear disguised as practicality. What we really want seems impossibly out of reach and ridiculous to expect so we never ask the universe for it. I’m saying I’m the proof that you can ask the universe for it. And if it doesn’t happen for you right away, it’s only because the universe is so busy fulfilling my order.”

9. MINDY KALING // HARVARD LAW SCHOOL

Comedy writer/actress Mindy Kaling gave the commencement speech to the Class of 2014 at Harvard Law School, where she joked about her “glamorous” lifestyle, and questioned why Harvard would even ask her to be the commencement speaker in the first place. Kaling also joked that celebrities are the worst people in the world to give advice to recent graduates.

“What advice could I give you guys?” said the star of The Mindy Project . “Celebrities give too much advice and people listen to it too much. Most of us have no education whatsoever. Who should be giving advice and the answer is people like you. You are better educated and you are going to go out into the world and people are going to listen to what you say, whether you are good or evil, and that probably scares you because some of you look really young.”

10. STEVE CARELL // PRINCETON UNIVERSITY

In 2012, Steve Carell spoke to Princeton University graduates during Class Day. His niece was in the audience as one of the Ivy League school’s graduates. He spoke about his attempt to enter law school, but ultimately not becoming a lawyer once he read the question “Why do you want to be an attorney?" on the law school application. Carell then ended his speech with a few tidbits about what to expect from the real world.

“I would like to leave you with a few random thoughts. Not advice per se, but some helpful hints,” Carell told the graduating class. “Show up on time. Because to be late is to show disrespect. Remember that the words 'regime' and 'regimen' are not interchangeable. Get a dog, because cats are lame. Only use a 'That's what she said' joke if you absolutely cannot resist. Never try to explain a 'That's what she said' joke to your parents. When out to eat, tip on the entire check. Do not subtract the tax first. And every once in a while, put something positive into the world. We have become so cynical these days. And by we I mean us. So do something kind, make someone laugh, and don't take yourself too seriously.”

11. J.K. ROWLING // HARVARD UNIVERSITY

Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling gave the commencement speech at Harvard University in 2008. During her speech, Rowling talked about the value of imagination, failing in life to succeed, and friendship throughout school into the real world.

“The friends with whom I sat on graduation day have been my friends for life,” Rowling shared. “They are my children’s godparents, the people to whom I’ve been able to turn in times of trouble, people who have been kind enough not to sue me when I took their names for Death Eaters. At our graduation we were bound by enormous affection, by our shared experience of a time that could never come again.”

12. TOM HANKS // YALE UNIVERSITY

In 2011, Tom Hanks was the commencement speaker at Yale University. He told the graduates how they can make a deep impression on the world based on how they handle fear and if they inspire faith.

"Fear has become the commodity that sells as certainly as sex," Hanks said. "Fear is cheap, fear is easy, fear gets attention ... It's fast, it's gossip and it's just as glamorous, juicy and profitable. Fear twists facts into fictions that become indistinguishable from ignorance."

13. ELLEN DEGENERES // TULANE UNIVERSITY

Talk show host/comedian Ellen DeGeneres was the commencement speaker for Tulane University’s Class of 2009. At the ceremony, she was also awarded the Tulane University President's Medal. DeGeneres spoke about the importance of following your passions in life.

“Success is to live your life with integrity and to not give in to peer pressure to try to be something that you're not,” DeGeneres told the class. “Success is to be honest and to contribute in some way ... Follow your passion, stay true to yourself, never follow someone else's path unless you're in the woods and you're lost and you see a path then by all means you should follow that.”

14. CONAN O’BRIEN // DARTMOUTH COLLEGE

Late night talk show host Conan O’Brien addressed the Class of 2011 at Dartmouth College, along with “faculty, parents, relatives, undergraduates, and old people that just come to these things.” He spoke about his success and failures at NBC, while highlighting why it’s important to be disappointed in life: “Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality.”

O’Brien ended his speech by saying, “At the end of my final program with NBC, just before signing off, I said ‘Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen.’ Today … I have never believed that more.”

15. KERRY WASHINGTON // GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

In 2013, Scandal star Kerry Washington gave the commencement speech at George Washington University, from which she herself graduated in 1998. She received an honorary degree from her alma mater and gave some words of advice to the recent graduates, “You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that can write the story that you were meant to tell.”

The 15 Best Commencement Speeches of All Time

Table of Contents

T here’s a lot of pressure on speakers delivering a commencement speech.

They have to say something inspiring, engaging, and memorable—and if that wasn’t hard enough, they have to remain composed in front of hundreds or thousands of people. 

Universities handpick some of the most prestigious public speakers to give graduation speeches. As a result, there’s no shortage of commencement speech examples to watch and learn from. 

We’ve picked out 15 of the very best from recent times, including videos, transcripts, and the best quote from each.

What are the ingredients of the best commencement speeches?

Before we get to the speeches, perhaps you’ve come across this article because you’re on the lookout for your own graduation speech ideas to deliver at an upcoming address. 

If so, we’ve outlined the commonalities all of the best graduation speeches on this list share, so you can start crafting an address that will leave a lasting impression.

They include personal anecdotes

As you read through the graduation speech examples on this list, you’ll notice that nearly all of them start with a personal anecdote of some sort. This may be just a casual reference to one’s personal life, or a longer, more detailed story—or even a set of stories that are woven throughout the speech. 

Anecdotes can create a captivating hook for your speech, and also make you more relatable, so that students identify with your main points.

They have a clear central theme

Most graduation speeches range from ten minutes to thirty minutes, but all of the best ones can be boiled down to one or two sentences. This is because a good graduation speech will be crafted around a central point: one specific concept that the speaker wants to demonstrate. 

If you’re looking for graduation speech ideas, start with the primary point you want to make and build your speech around that. Choose too many points, and you’ll have a meandering speech that will leave listeners confused or overwhelmed.

They feature powerful one-liners 

You’ll see we’ve included our favorite quotes from each of the graduation speeches below. In most cases, it was hard to just pick one line! A good graduation speech should have a few standout moments—one or two sentences that will stick in the minds of anyone who hears the speech. 

The brilliant one-liners will rarely show up on the first draft of your speech, so don’t worry about being too clever when you’re just starting out. As you edit and hone the speech, the best lines will write themselves.

They are applicable to a broad audience 

It’s not uncommon for commencement speech-givers to make comments about the specific school they are speaking to; a commencement address at at a technical school will naturally have different themes than one at a liberal arts college. 

But ultimately, the graduation speech you give should be applicable to a broad audience. Every person in the graduating class should be able to resonate with the message on some level, and the most memorable graduation speeches apply to all young adults who are preparing to start living on their own.

The 15 best commencement speeches of all time

Kamala harris commencement speech .

Tennessee State University, Class of 2022

Read the transcript

Why it’s so good: Vice President Harris had a tough job—addressing a class of students who had experienced a global pandemic that disrupted their college experience. She took the stage and gave an inspiring speech encouraging students to seize the moment and adopt a sense of leadership. Listening to her speak, it’s no surprise her eloquence helped bring her to the White House. 

Best quote: “I look at this unsettled world and, yes, I then see the challenges, but I’m here to tell you, I also see the opportunities. The opportunities for your leadership. The future of our country and our world will be shaped by you.”

Jim Carrey commencement speech

Maharishi University of Management, Class of 2014

Why it’s so good: Actor Jim Carrey is introduced as “the funniest man on Earth,” and though he comes out with a bunch of great jokes, his speech delivers insightful, thought-provoking, and touching comments about what life will be like after graduation. 

Best quote: “You can spend your whole life imagining ghosts, worrying about the pathway to the future, but all there will ever be is what’s happening here, and the decisions we make in this moment, which are based in either love or fear.”

Taylor Swift commencement speech

New York University, Class of 2022

Why it’s so good: Taylor Swift, in some ways, is the voice of the generation (though you may roll your eyes at that statement if you aren’t a fan). Either way, this graduation speech she gave speaks directly to the GenZ audience she addressed in a way older speakers might not be able to achieve.

Best quote: “Never be ashamed of trying. Effortlessness is a myth. The people who wanted it the least were the ones I wanted to date and be friends with in high school. The people who want it most are the people I now hire to work for my company. ”

Steve Jobs commencement speech

Stanford, Class of 2005

Why it’s so good: Despite being one of the most successful businesspersons ever, the late Steve Jobs dropped out of college. He doesn’t shy away from this in his speech—instead, he uses it to tell three compelling stories from his life that contain some excellent lessons for soon-to-be grads. 

Best quote: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma—which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”

Patton Oswalt commencement speech 

William & Mary, Class of 2023

Read more excerpts

Why it’s so good: If you only read the opening of actor Patton Oswald’s commencement speech, it will sound less than inspiring. He begins by outlining the many uncomfortable realities our world is facing, from climate change to deteriorating democracies around the world. But as his speech goes on, Oswalt puts into words the hope and passion that are signature traits of Generation Z, and it has an impressive impact on his audience. 

Best quote: “You do not have a choice but to be anything but extraordinary. Those are the times we’re living in right now. And it’s been amazing. It’s been truly amazing to see how your generation has rebelled against every bad habit of mine and every generation that came before me.”

Maria Shriver commencement speech

University of Michigan, Class of 2022

Why it’s so good: Though exciting, graduating from college can be intimidating as well—students may feel unconfident about what they want to do in life and who they want to be. Though she’s a seasoned journalist, Maria Shriver knows something about self-doubt and how to overcome it. She eloquently shares her advice in this graduation speech. 

Best quote: “Graduates, you are not here to do a repeat of your parents or other famous Michigan grads. You are here to live your own wildly authentic lives. And it’s your authenticity, your determination, your creativity, and your imagination that our society needs most at this uncertain time.”

Denzel Washington commencement speech

University of Pennsylvania, Class of 2011

Why it’s so good: You probably don’t think of the word “failure” when you think of Denzel Washington, but that’s just the thing—as he says in his speech, people don’t focus on the failures of someone’s life; they focus on the successes. He uses examples of his own failures to encourage grads to “fall forward” when they don’t succeed. 

Best quote: “So the question is, what are you going to do with what you have? I’m not talking about how much you have. Some of you are business majors. Some of you were theologians, nurses, sociologists. Some of you have money. Some of you have patience. Some of you have kindness. Some of you have love. Some of you have the gift of long-suffering. Whatever it is, whatever your gift is, what are you going to do with what you have?”

Elizabeth Bonker graduation speech

Rollins College, Class of 2022

Why it’s so good: Elizabeth Bonker was one of the valedictorians for her class, which meant she was expected to give a commencement speech. As a woman affected by nonspeaking autism, she relied on technology to communicate a message of perseverance and the power to choose your own path in life. 

Best quote: “The freedom to choose our own way is our fundamental human right, and it is a right worth defending, not just for us, but for every human being.”

David Foster Wallace commencement speech

Kenyon College, Class of 2005

Why it’s so good: Author David Foster Wallace was a master storyteller, and his speech is full of funny parables that conceal incredibly profound insights for the graduates listening. The speech Wallace gave was raw and honest, and as such, it has cemented itself as one of the best commencement speeches of all time. 

Best quote: “And I submit that this is what the real, no bullshit value of your liberal arts education is supposed to be about: how to keep from going through your comfortable, prosperous, respectable adult life dead, unconscious, a slave to your head and to your natural default setting of being uniquely, completely, imperially alone day in and day out.”

Tom Hanks commencement speech 

Harvard University, Class of 2023

Why it’s so good: Harvard is well-known for hosting some of the best commencement speeches, and 2023 was no different. Actor Tom Hanks started his address by talking about superheroes, and used it as a launching pad to show students how to tap into their own powers and fight for truth, justice, and the American Way. 

Best quote: “Every day, every year, and for every graduating class there is a choice, the same option for all grownups to make: to be one of three types of Americans—those who embrace liberty and freedom for all , those who won’t, or those who are indifferent. In the never-ending battle you have all officially joined as of today, the difference is in how truly you believe, in how vociferously you promote, in how tightly you hold to the Truth that is self-evident—that of course we are all created equally yet differently, and of course we are all in this together. Justice and the American way are within our grasp no matter our gender, our faith, our station, our heritage, our genetic makeup, the shade of our flesh, or the continental birthplace of our ancestors.”

Mary Schmich commencement speech (sort of)

All Graduates Everywhere, 1997

Read the original essay

Why it’s so good: This speech, titled “Advice, like youth, probably just wasted on the young,” was never delivered to a single graduating class. It originated as a hypothetical commencement speech penned by Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich. It went viral over email (it was 1997, after all, so there was no social media). Later, Baz Luhrmann (yes, that Baz Luhrmann) adapted it into a spoken-word song commonly known as “Wear Sunscreen.” The song still slaps and contains a bunch of fantastic advice for young people. 

Best quote: “Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives. Some of the most interesting 40-year-olds I know still don’t.”

Abby Wambach commencement speech

Barnard College, Class of 2018

Why it’s so good: Olympic gold-medalist, World Cup champ, and human rights activist Abby Wambach was the perfect person to give a speech to the women graduating in the 2018 class at Barnard College. She gave a rousing speech about feminism and the power the women in her audience held as they took a step into the future. 

Best quote: “As you go out into the world: Amplify each others’ voices. Demand seats for women, people of color and all marginalized people at every table where decisions are made. Call out each other’s wins and just like we do on the field: claim the success of one woman, as a collective success for all women.”

George Saunders commencement speech

Syracuse University College of Arts and Sciences, Class of 2013

Why it’s so good: Author George Saunders took the stage at the same university where he was a professor, which may explain why he was so candid in his excellent graduation speech. He speaks on regret and kindness—two emotions that are more connected than you may think. 

Best quote: “Since, according to me, your life is going to be a gradual process of becoming kinder and more loving: Hurry up. Speed it along. Start right now. There’s a confusion in each of us, a sickness, really: selfishness. But there’s also a cure. So be a good and proactive and even somewhat desperate patient on your own behalf—seek out the most efficacious anti-selfishness medicines, energetically, for the rest of your life.”

Matthew McConaughey commencement speech

University of Houston, Class of 2018

Why it’s so good: Matthew McConaughey gives a masterclass on structuring an excellent graduation speech. He cuts to the chase, letting the audience know that he’s going to share with them 13 simple truths. The first one is “Life’s not fair.” And they only get more honest and inspiring from there. 

Best quote: “Prioritize who you are, who you want to be, and don’t spend time with anything that antagonizes your character. Don’t drink the Kool-Aid. It tastes sweet but you will get cavities tomorrow. Life is not a popularity contest. Be brave. Take the hill. But first answer that question. What’s my hill?”

Juan Manuel Santos commencement speech 

Notre Dame University, Class of 2023

Why it’s so good: Juan Manuel Santos was the president of Colombia from 2010 to 2018, and much of his time during those years was dedicated to ending the long, violent civil war in his country. For this effort, he was the sole recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016. It should come as no surprise that he delivered a moving commencement speech focused on the concept of peacemaking. 

Best quote: “To become a true peacemaker, first you must be at peace with yourself, at peace with your own conscience. … Whenever you have to choose between being at peace or proving yourself right, choose the way of peace. We have too many wars, conflicts, deaths, victims, and violence because human beings insist that only they, not their fellow humans, know the correct course of action. It is better to be at peace than to prove to anyone that you are right. Work with peace in your heart, find peace in your soul, and everything else will follow.”

More inspirational content for recent grads

Before you go, if you’re on the lookout for more resources to help you now that you’re a college grad, we’ve got some excellent content you might want to check out. Here are some of the best articles from our archives for young alumni:

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How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Graduation Speech: Tips, Examples, and Techniques

• The Speaker Lab
• March 7, 2024

Table of Contents

The goal of any graduation speech is to find words that capture the essence of years spent learning and growing. Today, we’ll guide you through that process and help you craft a memorable graduation speech . You’ll learn to weave gratitude with shared experiences, and balance humor with wisdom. We’ll even help you find quotes that strike a chord and deliver them in a way that resonates.

But that’s not all! Dive into proven strategies for public speaking, managing stage fright, and drawing inspiration from iconic commencement speeches. Discover how personal growth stories add depth to your message and explore themes that leave a lasting impact on your peers as they step forward into new beginnings.

Crafting Your Graduation Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to marking the end of your high school or university journey, a graduation speech can capture the essence of this pivotal moment. But how do you start such an important address?

Opening with Impact

The first words of your graduation speech are crucial. They set the stage for what’s to come and grab your audience’s attention. Think about starting strong by sharing a personal anecdote that ties into the broader experience of your class or drawing from Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech , where he began with, “Today I want to tell you three stories from my life.” This technique instantly piques interest because it promises narratives that have shaped who you are.

An impactful opening also acknowledges shared experiences. Perhaps you could reflect on how moments in classrooms turned strangers into lifelong friends. Or for university commencements, consider touching upon those late-night study sessions that tested perseverance but ultimately led to academic achievements worth celebrating today.

Building the Body of Your Graduation Speech

In crafting the body content, intertwine lessons learned throughout high school years or during university courses with aspirations for what lies ahead. For instance, share how overcoming obstacles like balancing extracurricular activities and academics taught valuable time management skills.

To add depth, incorporate quotes from luminaries like Oprah Winfrey or draw parallels between classroom learnings and real-world applications. Dive deeper by discussing milestones achieved together as a graduating class and recognizing the hard work everyone put in to make it to this monumental occasion.

Concluding with Inspiration

Your conclusion should leave fellow graduates feeling inspired while helping them celebrate high school memories one last time—or honor those unforgettable college years if addressing higher education grads.

Closing remarks could include heartfelt gratitude towards teachers’ support and parental guidance. You might even crack a joke or two. It’s these personalized touches paired with universal truths that resonate most deeply as students step forward into new chapters post-graduation.

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Delivery Techniques for Confident Speaking

Standing in front of a crowd can turn even the most composed student into a bundle of nerves. But fear not, with some smart strategies, you’ll be able to channel your inner orator and deliver your graduation speech with confidence.

Practicing Your Graduation Speech

Becoming familiar with every word of your speech is key. Rehearse it out loud until the words feel like second nature. This practice does more than just help you remember what comes next; it lets you find the natural rhythm and pace of your delivery. Consider recording yourself to catch any quirks or stumbling blocks—you might be surprised at how much this helps refine your presentation.

A trick often overlooked is practicing in different environments. If possible, stand on the actual stage where you will deliver your commencement address. Familiarity breeds comfort, making that once daunting podium seem like an old friend when graduation day arrives.

Overcoming Nervousness and Stage Fright

Nervousness is normal but doesn’t let it dictate your performance. Before stepping up to speak, take deep breaths to steady yourself—a calm body encourages a calm mind. An effective method for easing anxiety is visualization. Imagine delivering each line perfectly and receiving an enthusiastic response from listeners—envisioning success can make it so.

Maintaining Eye Contact

The power of eye contact cannot be overstated. It connects speaker and listener on a personal level that amplifies engagement significantly. Scan across different sections of the audience periodically without lingering too long on any one individual.

Incorporate these techniques diligently when preparing for the big day. In doing so, they become part of muscle memory and help build confidence. With confidence and plenty of practice on your side, your graduation speech is sure to conclude to applause leaving you to celebrate yet another milestone achieved.

Analyzing Renowned Graduation Speeches for Inspiration

When crafting a commencement speech , it’s often helpful to look at the giants whose words have echoed through auditoriums and across campuses. Steve Jobs’ Stanford University Commencement Speech is a classic example of weaving life lessons into an address that connects deeply with graduates. Similarly, Oprah Winfrey’s Harvard University Commencement Address showed how stumbling blocks can become stepping stones if we learn from them.

Steve Jobs’ Storytelling Mastery

Jobs had a knack for turning personal anecdotes into universal truths. In his Stanford address, he shared three stories from his own life without sounding self-indulgent. These stories worked because each one carried a broader message relevant to every graduate: finding what you love, dealing with loss, and facing death head-on. Jobs famously urged students to “stay hungry, stay foolish,” encouraging them not just to pursue success but remain curious about life despite challenges. This advice is especially poignant for today’s graduating class.

Like Jobs, you too can craft narratives around moments that speak volumes about perseverance and passion.

Oprah’s Unflinching Honesty

Much like her television persona suggests, Oprah did not shy away from discussing her setbacks in front of Harvard’s graduating class. Instead, she confidently laid bare the challenges faced by anyone who dares greatly because failure is part of achieving greatness. As she reminded students, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point you are bound to stumble.”

In doing so she forged an instant connection with listeners grappling with their fears about what the future holds post-graduation. It was a powerful reminder that even icons like Oprah are not immune to trials but emerge stronger through them.

The power behind these speeches lies not just in their content but also in their delivery. These speakers mastered the art of speaking confidently before crowds, maintaining eye contact, and conveying authenticity—techniques any speaker should aspire to replicate on graduation day.

Themes and Messages That Resonate with Graduates

Facing a sea of caps and gowns, the right words can turn a graduation ceremony from mundane to memorable. When crafting your commencement speech, focusing on themes like overcoming obstacles and perseverance connects deeply with graduates who have hurdled high school or college challenges.

Overcoming Obstacles

Talking about stumbling blocks is not just relatable; it’s inspirational. Think Steve Jobs at Stanford University or Oprah Winfrey at Harvard—both shared personal tales of setbacks turned into comebacks. Beyond simply telling their stories, they showed how those hurdles were stepping stones to success.

Weave your narrative around the potholes you’ve navigated during your high school years. This doesn’t mean airing every bit of dirty laundry, just highlighting that one significant moment where everything seemed against you yet failed to defeat you.

The Power of Perseverance

Perseverance is more than sticking to something—it’s pushing forward when every fiber wants to quit. It resonates because everyone, including your fellow graduates, has felt that urge to give up but chose to persevere instead.

Incorporate this theme by using vivid examples that mirror collective experiences—the all-nighters before exams or balancing sports stars ambitions with academics—to illustrate perseverance isn’t just an idea but lived reality for many students.

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Life Lessons Shared During Graduation Speeches

In addition to sharing content that fellow graduates will find relatable and inspirational, you should also consider sharing life lessons with your audience. Whether young or old, everyone has a unique perspective on life and sharing your wisdom can steer graduates toward a fulfilling path.

The Power of Kindness

Making a positive impact doesn’t require grand gestures; sometimes it’s found in small acts of kindness or an innovative idea that simplifies lives. This message sticks because everyone wants their work to mean something—to know they’ve left footprints on society’s vast canvas.

True Grit and Tenacity

Embracing failure and resilience is another powerful theme echoed by commencement speakers across podiums. Let’s face it; not all endeavors lead straight to success. But as Oprah Winfrey once said during her Harvard University commencement address, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point, you are bound to stumble.” Her words remind us: How we pick ourselves up matters more than how we fall.

Making a Positive Impact

A graduating class stands poised on tomorrow’s threshold ready to mold history—and speeches should fuel this transformative fire within them. Memorable graduation speeches show individuals that ovation-worthy achievements are possible if you believe your actions count.

As you prepare your graduation speech, consider including one of these life lessons or one of your own. Don’t be afraid to share your hard-won insights to your fellow graduates—you just might inspire them to make history.

Celebrating Achievements and Acknowledging Contributions

Graduation is not just a ceremony. It’s a tribute to the academic achievements and extracurricular activities that have shaped students into who they are. The acknowledgment of teacher support and parental guidance also plays a pivotal role in these speeches, as they’re the scaffolding upon which student successes are built.

Academic Achievements, Extracurricular Activities

Acknowledging academic prowess goes beyond GPA scores or honor societies; it’s about highlighting unique intellectual journeys. Similarly, shining a light on extracurricular triumphs—be it sports stars setting records or artists winning competitions—adds depth to your speech. Remembering these moments isn’t merely recounting victories but celebrating the relentless spirit of your fellow graduates.

Diving deeper into personal anecdotes helps you connect with peers by reminding them of their growth through challenges faced together—from late-night study sessions to championship games. It’s these stories that make graduation memories stick with classmates long after commencement ends.

Teacher Support, Parental Guidance

The unsung heroes behind every graduate deserve their moment in your address too. Teachers’ dedication can turn classrooms into launch pads for dreams, while parents’ unwavering belief often fuels aspirations during tumultuous times like the pandemic.

In weaving tales of mentorship from teachers or wisdom imparted by parents, you remind everyone that success is rarely a solo act—it’s supported by many hands and hearts along the way. Celebrate this collective effort because each person has contributed uniquely to shaping graduating classes across America, including yours.

Common Issues in Writing and Delivering Graduation Speeches

Staring at a blank page as the clock ticks down to graduation day can rattle even the most seasoned speech writers. Overcoming writer’s block is about finding your message stick—the core idea that you want to leave with your peers. Remember, this isn’t just any talk; it’s one that marks a significant transition for both you and your audience.

Overcoming Writer’s Block

Finding yourself stumped on how to write a speech ? Don’t sweat it. Start by jotting down memories from school years or powerful life lessons that resonate. Think of Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech where he shared personal stories, which became an inspirational backbone for many other speeches.

If inspiration doesn’t strike immediately, step away from the computer. Take a walk and reflect on high school experiences or browse through commencement speeches archives—like Lin-Manuel Miranda’s address at the University of Pennsylvania. They might spark ideas you hadn’t considered yet.

Navigating Technical Troubles

A great speech can stumble over technical hiccups. To avoid glitches, check all equipment beforehand—a simple but crucial task often overlooked due to nerves or excitement about graduating class celebrations.

Prior rehearsals will also let you handle these issues like a pro should they pop up during delivery. Make sure any videos or slides complement rather than overshadow what you’re saying. After all, graduates aren’t there for bells and whistles—they’re there for meaningful words.

Handling Stage Fright

Your knees may shake thinking delivering in front of proud parents and peers—it’s no small feat, after all. Before you step on stage, visual your success until it feels more real and attainable.

And don’t forget to watch your body language . During your speech, maintain eye contact—not stare-downs—to connect genuinely with fellow students. And if anxiety creeps up despite practice sessions? Take deep breaths to steady yourself and keep going. You’ve handled high school—you can handle this.

FAQs on Writing and Delivering a Graduation Speech

What do i say in my graduation speech.

Share heartfelt stories, acknowledge support from others, and inspire your classmates to chase their dreams boldly.

How do you write a 3 minute graduation speech?

Keep it tight: hit the high notes with gratitude, shared memories, a dash of humor, and wrap up with punchy inspiration.

How do I start a graduation speech?

Kick off with thanks. Give props to family and mentors. Set the stage for reflecting on past adventures together.

What is the most important message of a graduation speech?

The core should spark hope—urge peers to leap into tomorrow equipped with lessons learned during these formative years.

Master your moment with a graduation speech that turns heads and warms hearts. Remember the power of gratitude and connect with your audience through stories, those shared adventures that bind you to your classmates. Don’t be afraid to add a few jokes and quotes to your speech either, as well as personal growth stories to inspire.

When you hit the stage, stand tall, make eye contact, and speak from your heart—the podium’s yours. If butterflies invade, breathe deep and know everyone’s rooting for you. Writer’s block didn’t stop you and neither will this.

Your graduation speech is not just words—it’s a battle cry for your graduating class as you prepare to conquer what lies ahead!

• Last Updated: March 5, 2024

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The Best Commencement Speeches, Ever

Looking for some new words of wisdom? Check out our hand-picked selection of commencement addresses, going back to 1774. Search over 350 speeches by name, school, date or theme — and find out what they have in common with pop songs — on our blog: n.pr/ed .

By Jeremy Bowers, Emily Davis, Danny DeBelius, Christopher Groskopf, Anya Kamenetz, Meredith Rizzo, Sami Yenigun

Thanks to Cristina Negrut, the creator of http://graduationwisdom.com/ where many of these speeches were first collected.

May 19, 2014, Last updated: July 2, 2015

• Inner voice
• Embrace failure
• Remember history
• Don't give up
• Fight for equality
• Change the world

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Aaron Sorkin

Syracuse University

Abigail Washburn

Colorado College

Adam Savage

Sarah Lawrence College

Adrienne Rich

Douglass College

Ahmed Zewail

University of Tennessee

Connecticut College

Alexander Solzhenitsyn

Harvard University

Alexis Ohanian

Carthage College

Alice Greenwald

Amy poehler, anderson cooper.

Tulane University

Andrew Young

Andy samberg, angela ahrendts.

Ball State University

Angela Davis

Pitzer College

Anita L. DeFrantz

Anna quindlen.

Villanova University

Anne Lamott

University of California, Berkeley

Anne-Marie Slaughter

Tufts University

Anthony Corvino

Binghamton University

Ari Weinzweig and Paul Saginaw

University of Michigan

Arianna Huffington

Smith College

Vassar College

Arnold Schwarzenegger

University of Southern California

Art Buchwald

Atul gawande.

Williams College

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Barack Obama

Arizona State University

Barbara Bush

Wellesley College

Barbara Kingsolver

Duke University

Barnabas Binney

Rhode Island College (Brown University)

Barney Frank

Ben bernanke.

Princeton University

Benjamin Carson Jr.

Niagara University

Benno Schmidt Sr.

University of Missouri

Bernard Harris

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Bill Clinton

Yale University

New York University

Bill Watterson

Kenyon College

Billie Jean King

University of Massachusetts

Billy Collins

Berklee College of Music

Babson College

Auburn University

Bobby Knight

Trine University

University of Pennsylvania

Bradley Whitford

University of Wisconsin

Brian J. Dyson

Georgia Tech

Brian Kenny

Ohio Northern University

Callie Khouri

Sweet Briar College

Candy Crowley

Maharishi University

Drexel University

Carl Schramm

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Carly Fiorina

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Carrie Chapman Catt

Charles w. colson.

Geneva College

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chris gardner, chris matthews.

Fordham University

Chris Sacca

University of Minnesota

Chris Waddell

Middlebury College

Chuck Norris

Liberty University

Clayborne Carson

Colin powell.

Northeastern University

Conan O’Brien

Dartmouth College

Cornel West

Wesleyan University

Cory Booker

Cynthia enloe.

Stanford University

Daniel S. Goldin

David broder.

Kalamazoo College

David Brooks

Wake Forest University

Rice University

Sewanee: The University of the South

David Byrne

Columbia University

University of California, Berkeley, Graduate School of Journalism

University of New Hampshire

David Foster Wallace

David l. calhoun.

Virginia Tech

David McCullough Jr.

Wellesley High School

David Remnick

David woodle, dennis lehane.

Eckerd College

Denzel Washington

Dillard University

Dolly Parton

Doug marlette.

Durham Academy

Douglas Smith

DeVry University

Loyola University

Drew Houston

Dwight eisenhower, earl bakken.

University of Hawaii

Knox College

Cornell University

University of Virginia

Edward O. Wilson

University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Edward W. Brooke

Elias a. zerhouni, elie wiesel, ellen degeneres, emir kamenica.

University of Chicago, Booth School of Business

Eric Greitens

Whitman College

Estelle Parsons

Eugene mirman.

Lexington High School

Fareed Zakaria

Bates College

Francine du Plessix Gray

Barnard College

Frank McCourt

Franklin d. roosevelt.

Oglethorpe University

Fred Armisen

Oregon Episcopal School

Fred Rogers

Gabrielle giffords.

Scripps College

Gary Malkowski

Gallaudet University

George C. Marshall

George plimpton, george saunders, george w. bush.

Calvin College

Gerald Ford

Chicago State University

Gloria Steinem

Greil marcus.

School of Visual Arts

Guido Calabresi

Guy kawasaki, gwendolyn brooks.

University of Vermont

Marquette University

Henry A. Wallace

Howard gordon.

Goucher College

J.K. Rowling

Jaclyn rossi, james b. angell, james bryce, james carville.

Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Jamie Hyneman

Janet napolitano, janet yellen.

USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism

Jason Kilar

Emerson College

Jean Andrews

University of Texas, Austin

Jefferson Smith

University of Oregon

Jeffrey Sachs

Jennie cyran, jennifer lee, jerry zucker, jessica lange, jill abramson.

Maharishi University of Management

Jimmy Iovine

Jimmy tingle, joan didion.

University of California, Riverside

Jodie Foster

Joe plumeri.

College of William and Mary

John F. Kennedy

American University

John F. Kerry

Butler University

John Jacob Scherer

Roanoke College

John Legend

Kean University

John Mackey

Bentley College

John McCain

John roberts, john seely brown.

Wheaton College

Jon Stewart

Jonathan safran foer, jonathon youshaei.

Deerfield High School

Joseph Brodsky

Joss whedon, julia keller.

Dominican University

Julianna Margulies

Los Angeles Trade Technical College

Kati Marton

Central European University

Katie Couric

Georgetown University

Kermit the Frog

Southampton College

Kirk Schneider

San Francisco State University

Kurt Vonnegut

Agnes Scott College

Larry Lucchino

Boston University

Florida State University

Leonard A. Lauder

Lewis black.

University of California, San Diego

Lewis Lapham

St. John’s College

Lisa Kudrow

Louis b. susman, lyndon baines johnson.

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Madeleine Albright

Madeleine l’engle, makoto fujimura.

Belhaven University

Margaret Atwood

University of Toronto

Margaret J. Geller

Margaret spellings.

Montgomery College

Maria Shriver

Marian fontana.

Massachusetts School of Law

Marissa Mayer

Illinois Institute of Technology

Mark S. Lewis

Marlee matlin.

Wilkes University

Martha Nussbaum

Martin marty.

Eastern Mennonite University

Martin Scorsese

New York University Tisch School of the Arts

Marvin Bell

Northwest Institute of Literary Arts

Mary Robinson

Maya rudolph, meg greenfield.

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

Melissa Harris-Perry

Meredith monk, meredith vieira, meryl streep, michael bloomberg.

University of North Carolina

Michael Dell

Michael ignatieff, michael j. burry.

University of California, Los Angeles

Michael Lewis

Michael oren.

Brandeis University

Michael Uslan

Indiana University

Michelle Obama

Spelman College

Mike Tomlin

Saint Vincent College

Mindy Kaling

Harvard Law School

Mother Teresa

Muriel siebert.

Case Western Reserve University

Natalie Portman

Neil gaiman.

The University of the Arts

University of Mary Washington

Neil deGrasse Tyson

University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Njabulo S. Ndebele

Nora ephron, omid kordestani.

San Jose State University

Oprah Winfrey

Howard University

Patricia McGowan Wald

Paul glaser, paul hawken.

University of Portland

Peter Dinklage

Bennington College

Phil Rosenthal

Hofstra University

Porochista Khakpour

Desert Academy

Rachel Maddow

Rahm emanuel.

George Washington University

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Randy pausch.

Carnegie Mellon University

Ray Bradbury

Edwin O. Smith High School

Rev. David O’Connell

Rev. dennis h. holtschneider, rev. joseph l. levesque, richard costolo, richard feynman, richard russo.

Colby College

Robert Ballard

Robert krulwich, robert m. gates.

University of Georgia

Robert Pinsky

Robert rodriguez, roger goodell.

University of Massachusetts Lowell

Roger Rosenblatt

Brigham Young University

Ron Suskind

Lewis & Clark College

Ronald Reagan

Eureka College

Ronan Farrow

Dominican University of California

Russell Baker

Ruth westheimer.

Trinity College

Salman Rushdie

Bard College

Sandra Soto

University of Arizona

Sanjay Gupta

Seamus heaney, sean lebowitz, sergio marchionne.

University of Toledo

Seth MacFarlane

Sharyn alfonsi.

University of Mississippi

Sheryl Sandberg

City Colleges of Chicago

Soledad O’Brien

University of Delaware

Stephen Colbert

Northwestern University

Stephen King

Stephen r. kellert.

University of Western Sydney, Australia

Steve Ballmer

Steve blank.

Philadelphia University

Sue Monk Kidd

Sumner redstone, susan sontag, sutton foster, suzan-lori parks.

Mount Holyoke College

Terry Gross

Bryn Mawr College

Terry Teachout

Hamilton Holt School

Theodor ‘Dr. Seuss’ Geisel

Lake Forest College

Thomas L. Friedman

Tiffany shlain, tim minchin.

University of Western Australia

Tim Russert

The Art Institute of California, Sunnyvale

Toni Morrison

The Catholic University of America

Tracy Chevalier

Oberlin College

Ursula K. Le Guin

Mills College

Vaclav Havel

Vernice armour.

Ashford University

Vernon Jordan

Victor hwang.

Austin Community College

Wangari Maathai

Warren burger.

Pace University

Wesley Chan

Whoopi goldberg.

Savannah College of Art and Design

Will Ferrell

William allen white, william chiu.

Halsey Junior High School

William H. Gass

Washington University

William Kunstler

State University of New York, Buffalo

Woody Hayes

Ohio State University

Wynton Marsalis

Maine College of Art

Yvonne Thornton

Tuskegee University

Zadie Smith

Zubin damania.

University of California, San Francisco

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The Long History Behind Your Favorite Celebrity Commencement Speech

E very year as summer edges ever closer and temperatures ever warmer, important people—ranging from the president to actors and from comedians to foreign dignitaries—flock to American colleges to give grads their two cents about life, work and everything else. The commencement speech has become its own advice-filled genre, spawning hit books and viral videos . But when did we become so inundated with by these seasonal advice-givers?

There’s no clear indication of which university started the trend of tapping celebrities to speak at graduations, but over the past three or four decades their numbers have grown from a few fun speakers amid a torrent of university officials to the flood of businesspeople, actors, writers and humorists who headline today’s ceremonies.

Notable politicians have been part of graduation ceremonies since the very earliest ones: Massachusetts Governor John Winthrop attended Harvard’s first commencement in 1642, when there were just nine “commencers .” But early commencement ceremonies were less about outside speakers than about hearing from the students themselves: those graduating would give orations in Hebrew, Greek and Latin as well as “disputations,” formal academic debates on philosophic questions. (The tradition of having a speech in Latin continues at some universities, though these days a translation is usually provided—plus, sometimes, instructions about when to laugh.)

Anthony Grafton, professor of intellectual history at Princeton University, says the commencement speech is “a very old custom and it goes with the idea that oratory was one of the central things that students were learning, and one of the central skills of the university.” Other speakers would also be academics, Grafton adds, who would demonstrate the level of disputation possible at different ranks of academic achievement.

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Despite what sounds like a fairly dry program, these commencement exercises were a big hit. Samuel Eliot Morison’s 1935 text The Founding of Harvard College described the activities of early commencements: “the commencers now having proved their proficiency in the three learned tongues, and the audience being suitably impressed and exceedingly fatigued, the assembly adjourns at eleven o’clock for dinner,” Open to the public, it was also an occasion for revelry. Albert Matthews, who studied Harvard commencements from 1642-1916, likewise noted that “for nearly two centuries it was the great gala day of the colony, the province, the state” and that “not merely the alumni but the populace” would flock to attend.

Over time, however, oratory began to lose its place as a central skill students were expected to acquire at college. Accordingly, their students’ displays of knowledge became a smaller part of the commencement exercises. To fill the gap, in came the guest speakers.

Even so, those early commencement speakers tended to be from the university in question or statesmen of some sort, not cultural figures. Sticking with Harvard, for example, 19th century commencement speakers did occasionally break the mold —Leslie Stephen, father of Virginia Woolf and “man of letters,” was the 1890 speaker—but tended to be prominent figures from fairly staid and proper backgrounds, often British aristocrats. Over time, artists and businessmen began to creep in among the academics. At first it was a trickle (Carl Sandburg in 1940; Thornton Wilder in 1951). By the 2000s, the school featured speakers with more celebrity backgrounds, like J.K. Rowling and Bill Gates, about as often as world leaders and academics.

MORE: 10 Timeless Pieces of Advice from Commencement Addresses

One reason why it may seem like there are more commencement speeches than ever is numbers: some individuals are sought after every year, and it has become a new normal for presidents to give multiple speeches each year. In NPR’s archive of 354 of the best commencement speeches, almost half were delivered after 2010, and only a handful before 1960.

And sure, recent speeches are easier to find and more likely to be relevant to our lives today—but that imbalance also reflects something deeper: changes in which jobs are considered important, whose advice is considered valuable, where we find counsel and who we most admire.

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How to Write a Graduation Speech (Graduation Speech Examples)

Have you been asked to deliver a commencement speech? Or have you worked your butt off to become valedictorian or salutatorian, and now you have to deliver a graduation speech? In this post, we will cover one of the more challenging types of presentation creation: How to Write a Graduation Speech . (By the way, I have also included a few popular graduation speech examples as a guide for you.)

This post is a continuation of our How to Create a Presentation series. We are going to break this post down into three parts, though. We will show you how to create a commencement speech in this post. Next week, I’ll show you how to write a valedictorian speech and how to deliver a salutatorian speech. Each of these graduation speeches has a slightly different purpose, but all of them need to be inspirational and funny.

How to Write a Commencement Speech

The commencement speech is often the keynote speech of the graduation ceremony. This presentation should be uplifting and entertaining, but this graduation speech should also teach a life lesson to the graduating students. If you do a search on YouTube of the best graduation speeches, many of these speakers will be famous comedians. When a comedian delivers a commencement speech, and the speech is posted on YouTube, it will always get a ton of views. The humor alone will make people want to watch the video. Three of the most popular of these speeches are by Conan O’Brien, Will Ferrell, and Ellen DeGeneres. The interesting thing about the speeches from these famous comedians is that, yes, they are funny, but the inspiration comes from what they learned from their failures.

“There is no such thing as failure. Failure is just life life trying to push you in another direction.” Oprah Winfrey, Harvard University Commencement Speech

A Good Structure When You Write a Commencement Address

Thank the crowd.

Start with Something Funny

Be Inspirational

The inspirational part of your commencement speech will come from the theme of the graduation speech . (For Sample Graduation Speech Themes , see the section below.) The easiest way to develop a theme is to look for an inspirational famous quote about success. You can do this by just going to Google and type in “success quotes”. Once you come up with a great quote, you can either paraphrase the quote and make it your own or quote the original speaker.

Tell Stories from Your Own Experience Related to Your Quote (Theme).

This the most important part of how to write a graduation speech. The stories and examples are what the audience will remember. These stories add emotion and inspiration to your graduation speech. They also help you build rapport with the audience. Finally, these stories make your delivery much easier. You don’t have to memorize a lot of material. Instead, just play the video in your head of what happened and describe the incident to the graduates.

For a great example of this, watch the YouTube video on Stanford University’s channel where Steve Jobs gives the commencement speech. I love this speech, because Jobs skips the introduction and the funny stuff and starts his speech with the following. “I’m going to tell you three stories.” It’s simple, and the crowd loves him.

End with an Inspirational Call to Action.

So as you go on to the next stage in your life and you experience failure… because you will experience failure, use that as a stepping stone to your next success. Persevere. Don’t rest on that success. Use it as a stepping stone to your next success. Persevere, and you will experience a series of successes and failures that will allow you to accomplish something great!”

Use this outline to create a simple 20 to 30 minute speech. (The shorter the better… No one gets a diploma until you finish.)

Sample Graduation Speech Themes

If you are having trouble coming up with a theme for your graduation speech, here are a few Sample Commencement Speech Themes. As you read through them, think about which them or quote has been most applicable in your career? Once you choose a graduation speech them, use the outline above to create your speech.

• Hard Work Leads to Success

“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.” — Coleman Cox

• Create Your Own Path.

“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” — Herman Melville

• Make Things Happen.

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” — Henry David Thoreau

• Don’t Settle for Average. Strive for Greatness.

“Don’t be afraid to give up the good to go for the great.” –John D. Rockefeller

• Don’t Wait for the Perfect Opportunity. Look for a Way to Create Your Own Opportunity.

“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.” — Chris Grosser/blockquote> The Road Ahead is Hard, But It Leads to Success. “Successful people do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do. Don’t wish it were easier; wish you were better.” — Jim Rohn

• Focus on Your Dream.

“The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” — Bruce Lee

• Learn from Every Mistake to Move Toward Success.

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.” — Conrad Hilton

• When Your Why is Big Enough, Your How Will Appear.

“If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.” — Jim Rohn

• Happiness is the Key to Success.

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer

Use the Speech Creator as a Guide to How to Create a Graduation Speech

Once you have chosen a them, and you have a few stories to inspire your audience, use our Online Speech Writer to help you organize your thoughts. (It’s free.)

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The 21 greatest graduation speeches of the last 60 years

By german lopez on may 11, 2016.

Graduation speeches are the last opportunity for a high school or college to educate its students. It's unsurprising, then, that these institutions often pull in some of the world's most powerful people to leave an equally powerful impression on their students. Here are the best of those speeches and some of the sections that resonate the most.

David Foster Wallace at Kenyon College, 2005

Jamie Sullivan

“There are these two young fish swimming along and they happen to meet an older fish swimming the other way, who nods at them and says, 'Morning, boys. How's the water?' And the two young fish swim on for a bit, and then eventually one of them looks over at the other and goes, 'What the hell is water?' This is a standard requirement of US commencement speeches: the deployment of didactic little parable-ish stories. The story thing turns out to be one of the better, less bulshitty conventions of the genre, but if you're worried that I plan to present myself here as the wise, older fish explaining what water is to you younger fish, please don't be. I am not the wise old fish.”

Steve Jobs at Stanford University, 2005

Stanford University

“No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because death is very likely the single best invention of life. It’s life’s change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it’s quite true. Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”

Ellen Degeneres at Tulane University, 2009

Tulane University

“I know that a lot of you are concerned about your future, but there’s no need to worry. The economy is booming, the job market is wide open, the planet is just fine. It’s gonna be great. You’ve already survived a hurricane. What else can happen to you? And as I mentioned before, some of the most devastating things that happen to you will teach you the most. And now you know the right questions to ask for your first job interview — like, ‘Is it above sea level?’ So to conclude my conclusion that I’ve previously concluded in the common cement speech, I guess what I’m trying to say is life is like one big Mardi Gras. But instead of showing your boobs, show people your brain. And if they like what they see, you’ll have more beads than you know what to do with. And you’ll be drunk most of the time.”

Conan O'Brien at Dartmouth College, 2011

“Way back in the 1940s there was a very, very funny man named Jack Benny. He was a giant star and easily one of the greatest comedians of his generation. And a much younger man named Johnny Carson wanted very much to be Jack Benny. In some ways he was, but in many ways he wasn’t. He emulated Jack Benny, but his own quirks and mannerisms, along with a changing medium, pulled him in a different direction. And yet his failure to completely become his hero made him the funniest person of his generation. David Letterman wanted to be Johnny Carson, and was not, and as a result my generation of comedians wanted to be David Letterman. And none of us are — my peers and I have all missed that mark in a thousand different ways. But the point is this: it is our failure to become our perceived ideal that ultimately defines us and makes us unique. It’s not easy, but if you accept your misfortune and handle it right, your perceived failure can be a catalyst for profound reinvention.”

Carol Bartz at University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2012

University of Wisconsin-Madison

“Accept failure and learn from it. Failure is part of life, it’s part of every career, and you have to know how to take advantage of it. The single greatest strength that this country has via Silicon Valley is that failure is seen as a sign of experience. Failure is part of work, it’s part of life. People are willing to take risks on the way to innovation. One of my fondest sayings is fail, fast, forward. Recognize you’ve failed, try to do it fast, learn from it, build on it, and move forward. Embrace failure, have it be part of your persona. You’re going to have long careers, as I’ve already told you, you’re going to have many failures — personal, business, professional. I’ve had my share. But just use this as a building block to your next success.”

President John F. Kennedy at American University, 1963

“Genuine peace must be the product of many nations, the sum of many acts. It must be dynamic, not static, changing to meet the challenge of each new generation. For peace is a process — a way of solving problems. With such a peace, there will still be quarrels and conflicting interests, as there are within families and nations. World peace, like community peace, does not require that each man love his neighbor — it requires only that they live together in mutual tolerance, submitting their disputes to a just and peaceful settlement.”

David McCullough Jr. at Wellesley High School, 2012

Wellesley High School

“Like accolades ought to be, the fulfilled life is a consequence — a gratifying byproduct. It’s what happens when you’re thinking about more important things. Climb the mountain not to plant your flag but to embrace the challenge, enjoy the air, and behold the view. Climb it so you can see the world, not so the world can see you. Go to Paris to be in Paris, not to cross it off your list and congratulate yourself for being worldly. Exercise free will and creative independent thought not for the satisfactions they will bring you but for the good they will do others — the rest of the 6.8 billion and those who will follow them. And then you too will discover the great and curious truth of the human experience is that selflessness is the best thing you can do for yourself. The sweetest joys of life, then, come only with the recognition that you’re not special, because everyone is.”

Stephen Colbert at Northwestern University, 2011

Joshua Sherman

“You have been told to follow your dreams, but what if it’s a stupid dream? For instance, Stephen Colbert of 25 years ago lived at 2015 North Ridge with two men and three women in what I now know was a brothel. He dreamed of living alone — well, alone with his beard in a large, barren loft apartment, lots of blonde wood, wearing a kimono, with a futon on the floor and a Samovar of tea constantly bubbling in the background, doing Shakespeare in the street for homeless people. Today, I am a beardless, suburban dad who lives in a house, wears no iron khakis, and makes Anthony Weiner jokes for a living. And I love it, because thankfully dreams can change. If we’d all stuck with our first dream, the world would be overrun with cowboys and princesses. So whatever your dream is right now, if you don’t achieve it, you haven’t failed, and you’re not some loser. But just as importantly — and this is the part I may not get right and you may not listen to — if you do get your dream, you are not a winner.”

Sheryl Sandberg at Harvard Business School, 2012

Harvard Business School

“I sat down with Eric Schmidt, who had just become the CEO [of Google], and I showed him the spreadsheet and I said, this job meets none of my criteria. He put his hand on my sheet and he looked at me and said, ‘Don’t be an idiot.’ Excellent career advice. And then he said, ‘Get on a rocketship. When companies are growing quickly and having a lot of impact, careers take care of themselves. And when companies aren’t growing quickly or their missions don’t matter as much, that’s when stagnation and politics come in. If you’re offered a seat on a rocketship, don’t ask what seat. Just get on.’”

Michael Lewis at Princeton University, 2012

Princeton University

“In a general sort of way you’ve been appointed leader of the group. Your appointment may not be entirely arbitrary. But you must sense right now its arbitrary aspect: you are the lucky few. Lucky in your parents, lucky in your country, lucky that a place like Princeton exists that can take in lucky people, introduce them to other lucky people, and increase their chances of becoming even luckier. Lucky that you live in the richest society the world has ever seen, in a time when no one actually expects you to sacrifice your interest to anything. All of you have been faced with the extra cookie. All of you will be faced with many more of them. In time you will find it easy to assume that you deserve the extra cookie. For all I know, you may deserve the extra cookie. But you will be happier, and you will be better off, if you at least pretend that you don't.”

Jon Stewart at the College of William & Mary, 2004

College of William & Mary

“Lets talk about the real world for a moment. ... I don’t really know to put this, so I’ll be blunt: we broke it. Please don’t be mad. I know we were supposed to bequeath to the next generation a world better than the one we were handed. So, sorry. I don’t know if you’ve been following the news lately, but it just kinda got away from us. Somewhere between the gold rush of easy internet profits and an arrogant sense of endless empire, we heard kind of a pinging noise, and then the damn thing just died on us. So I apologize. But here’s the good news: you fix this thing, you’re the next greatest generation, people.”

Oprah Winfrey at Spelman College, 2012

Spelman College

“You must have some kind of vision for your life, even if you don’t know the plan. You have to have a direction in which you choose to go. I never was the kind of woman who liked to get in a car and just go for a ride. I had a boyfriend that would say, ‘Let’s just go for a ride.’ I want to know where are we going. Do we have a destination? Is there a plan? Are we just riding? What I’ve learned is that’s a great metaphor for life. You want to be in the driver’s seat of your own life, because if you’re not, life will drive you.”

Neil Gaiman at the University of the Arts, 2012

Lennie Alzate

“The moment that you feel that, just possibly, you’re walking down the street naked, exposing too much of your heart and your mind and what exists on the inside, showing too much of yourself, that’s the moment you may be starting to get it right. The things I’ve done that worked the best were the things I was the least certain about, the stories where I was sure they would either work or more likely be the kinds of embarrassing failures that people would gather together and discuss until the end of time. They always had that in common. Looking back at them, people explain why they were inevitable successes. And while I was doing them, I had no idea. I still don’t. And where would be the fun in making something you knew was going to work? And sometimes the things I did really didn’t work. There are stories of mine that have never been reprinted. Some of them never even left the house. But I learned as much from them as I did from the things that worked.”

George Saunders at Syracuse University's College of Arts and Sciences, 2013

Syracuse University's College of Arts and Sciences

“Seek out the most efficacious anti-selfishness medicines energetically for the rest of your life. And do all the other things of course, the ambitious things: travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in a wild jungle river — after first testing it for monkey poop. But as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness. Do those things that incline you toward the big questions, and avoid the things that would reduce you and make you trivial. That luminous part of you that exists beyond personality — your soul, if you will — is as bright and shining as any that has ever been. Bright as Shakespeare’s, bright as Gandhi’s, bright as Mother Teresa’s. Clear away everything that keeps you separate from this secret luminous place. Believe it exists, come to know it better, nurture it, share its fruits tirelessly.”

Nora Ephron at Wellesley College, 1996

Wellesley College

“So what are you going to do? This is the season when a clutch of successful women who have it all get up and give speeches to women like you and say, ‘To be perfectly honest, you can’t have it all.’ Well, maybe young women don’t wonder whether they can have it all any longer, but in case any of you are wondering, of course you can have it all. What are you going to do? Everything is my guess. It will be a little messy, but embrace the mess. It will be complicated, but rejoice in the complications. It will not be anything like what you think it’s going to be like, but surprises are good for you. And don't be frightened. You can always change your mind. I know. I've had four careers and three husbands. And this is something else I want to tell you, one of the hundreds of things I didn’t know when I was sitting here so many years ago: you are not going to be you, fixed and immutable you, forever.”

Aaron Sorkin at Syracuse University, 2012

Syracuse University

“Decisions are made by those who show up. Don't ever forget that you're a citizen of this world. Don't ever forget that you’re a citizen of this world, and there are things you can do to lift the human spirit, things that are easy, things that are free, things that you can do every day: civility, respect, kindness, character. You’re too good for schadenfreude, you’re too good for gossip and snark, you’re too good for intolerance — and since you're walking into the middle of a presidential election, it’s worth mentioning that you’re too good to think people who disagree with you are your enemy. … Don’t ever forget that a small group of thoughtful people can change the world. It’s the only thing that ever has.”

Barbara Kingsolver at DePauw University, 1994

DePauw University

“It’s not up to you to save the world. That’s the job of every living person who likes the idea of a future. But I’m going to go out on a limb here and give you one little piece of advice, and that is, like the idea of a future. Believe you have it in you to make the world look better rather than worse seven generations from now. Figure out what that could look like. And then if you’re lucky, you’ll find a way to live inside that hope, running down its hallways, touching the walls on both sides.”

Jane Lynch at Smith College, 2012

Smith College

“My counsel to you, women of Smith College: let life surprise you. Don’t have a plan. Plans are for wusses. If my life went according to my plan, I would never ever have the life I have today. Now, you are obviously good planners, or you wouldn’t be here. So stop it! Stop it now! Don’t deprive yourself of the exciting journey your life can be when you relinquish the need to have goals and a blueprint.”

Bill Gates at Harvard University, 2007

Harvard University

“In line with the promise of this age, I want to exhort each of the graduates here to take on an issue — a complex problem, a deep inequity, and become a specialist on it. If you make it the focus of your career, that would be phenomenal. But you don’t have to do that to make an impact. For a few hours every week, you can use the growing power of the internet to get informed, find others with the same interests, see the barriers, and find ways to cut through them. Don’t let complexity stop you. Be activists. Take on big inequities. I feel sure it will be one of the great experiences of your lives.”

Eugene Mirman at Lexington High School, 2009

Eugene Mirman

“What’s the worst grade you’ve ever gotten? A D? An F? When I was in eighth grade in Diamond Middle School on a homework assignment — this is true — I once got a -8. Sadly very true. I did my assignment worse than not doing it. But did I let getting a grade lower than the lowest possible grade stop me? No. I was put into resource room in special education, and I turned my F into a D. So you see sometimes you can fail, then barely pass, and then become a comedian.”

Michelle Obama at Spelman College, 2011

“Some of you may have grown up like me, in neighborhoods where few had the chance to go to college, where being teased for doing well in school was a fact of life, where well-meaning but misguided folks questioned whether a girl with my background could get into a school like Princeton. Sometimes I’d save them the trouble and raised the questions myself, in my own head, lying awake at night, doubting whether I had what it took to succeed. And the truth is that there will always be folks out there who make assumptions about others. There will always be folks who try to raise themselves up by cutting other people down. That happens to everyone, including me, throughout their lives. But when that happens to you all, here’s what I want you to do: I want you to just stop a minute, take a deep breath — because it’s going to need to be deep — and I want you to think about all those women who came before you.”

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Learning & Tech

The 25 most promising graduation speeches of the year.

Cristina Negrut

The Dalai Lama answers questions from moderator Gwen Ifill in 2010. Ifill's speech this year is one of Cristina Negrut's most anticipated. The Dalai Lama's speech in 2013 was one of our faves. Al Behrman/AP hide caption

The Dalai Lama answers questions from moderator Gwen Ifill in 2010. Ifill's speech this year is one of Cristina Negrut's most anticipated. The Dalai Lama's speech in 2013 was one of our faves.

Every year, for the past eight years, I've read hundreds and hundreds of graduation speeches, all told more than 1,000.

My fascination with commencement speeches started back in 2005. I was spellbound by outstanding talks from David Foster Wallace and Steve Jobs . I soon discovered more examples by remarkable — yet not necessarily famous — graduation speakers, such as professor Mark Lewis and historian John Walsh . With my graduate coursework on the intricacies of collections and the art of archiving, there was really no turning back; these speeches became the foundation of Graduation Wisdom , my collection of inspirational commencement speeches and graduation quotes.

This season looks as promising as ever. Facing audiences ready to equally praise or blast their speeches on social media, today's speakers certainly have more pressure on them to put in the time to prepare a solid speech. Of the publicly announced speakers to date, I'm particularly looking forward to the following 25, which I've grouped under quirky but time-tested categories.

1. Tried And True

If past achievements in graduation speaking are any predictor of future performance, these speakers are set to do great. They each have given amazing speeches in the past. Can they do it again?

Wynton Marsalis , acclaimed jazz musician, Grammy winner and Pulitzer prize recipient — Tulane University, May 17. His speech last year at University of Vermont made quite a few best-of lists.

Katie Couric , journalist and television personality — Trinity College, May 18. Of her many graduation speeches, my favorite is her 2007 address at Williams College — "Simple Lessons for a Complicated Time."

Ed Helms , actor ( The Office ) — Cornell University, May 24. His speech last year at Knox College was one of the best speeches I have ever read. He spoke about fear and how it can be "one of the most valuable and life-informing things you can experience." Make sure you read it.

2. Wordsmiths

They can write. They can tell stories. They can sweep us off our feet with their crafted words. And yet, it still amazes me that so few writers and poets (as opposed to, say, politicians) get invited to give commencement addresses.

Richard Blanco , fifth inaugural poet — University of Rhode Island, May 18.

Natasha Trethewey , U.S. poet laureate — Knox College, June 7.

Isabel Wilkerson , Pulitzer Prize-winning author — Bates College, May 25.

3. Entertainers

Funny speeches are best left to the people who entertain for a living. They're not easy to pull off — one must be able to skillfully combine wisdom and laughter. It's a great mix when done right. So far this year, I could only find two potential candidates in this category:

Jay Leno , former host of NBC's Late Night Show — Emerson College, May 11.

Chris Regan , Emmy Award-winning writer ( Family Guy , The Daily Show with Jon Stewart ) — Ithaca College, May 18.

4. Wall Street Wizards

I would not have expected businesspeople to deliver great commencement speeches. Then I spent a good few years working at Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, listening to the many CEOs who were invited to give lectures. I reveled in their speeches, which were chock full of advice on how to be successful — one of the preferred topics for graduation speeches.

Greg Creed , chief executive officer for Taco Bell Corp — U.C.-Irvine's Paul Merage School of Business, June 16.

Ellen Kullman , CEO of DuPont — MIT, June 6.

Susan Wojcicki , CEO of YouTube — Johns Hopkins University, May 22.

5. The One And Only: Mass Media

Journalists and media personalities always make a terrific showing in the commencement sweepstakes, and my list is no exception. In many ways, they bring together two categories: they're wordsmiths who can entertain. I can't wait. I am only afraid my expectations are already set too high.

Terry Gross , host of NPR's Fresh Air — Bryn Mawr College, May 17.

Christopher Dickey , author and journalist — Hamilton College, May 25.

Marty Baron , Washington Post executive editor, Pulitzer Prize winner — Lehigh University, May 19.

Gwen Ifill , PBS NewsHour anchor — St. Mary's College of Maryland, May 17.

Rachel Martin , host of NPR's Weekend Edition Sunday — University of Puget Sound, May 18.

A husband-and-wife combo: David Plotz , editor of Slate , and Hanna Rosin , journalist and author — Ripon College, May 18.

6. Zen-Like

Four speakers: two beloved Buddhist teachers, a record-setting long-distance swimmer, and an inspirational autistic activist and author. I am almost sure their speeches will be worth watching and reading. The graduates are in for a treat.

Pema Chödrön , notable Buddhist teacher and author, Pema Chödrön Foundation — Naropa University, May 10.

Temple Grandin , autism awareness advocate, innovator in the livestock industry and best-selling author — Providence College, May 18.

Diana Nyad , first person to swim between Cuba and Florida without a shark cage — Middlebury College, May 25.

Norman Fisher , Zen Buddhist priest and poet, Everyday Zen Foundation — Stanford University, June 15.

7. Of Hollywood Fame

This is a risky category. Just as one cannot tell for certain whether a movie will be a smash at the box office, one cannot predict how these speeches will fare. Is there potential? Yes. Results? We'll see!

Jennifer Lee , Frozen screenwriter and director — University of New Hampshire, May 17.

Forest Whitaker , Oscar-winning actor — Miami University, May 17.

Shonda Rhimes , TV producer, Golden Globe winner, creator of ABC's Grey's Anatomy and Scandal — Dartmouth, June 8.

In a second installment, in June, I'll take a look back and see which speeches did indeed fare well. I know there will be plenty of surprises, they always are, but that makes more interesting. Who knows, the best commencement speech might be given to a college or high school near you. I hope you'll let us know!

To explore hundreds of graduation speeches from over the past 240 years, visit our app: "The Best Commencement Speeches, Ever." To see more excerpts and transcripts of Cristina Negrut's favorites, visit GraduationWisdom.com .

16 Lessons from the Best Commencement Speeches Given by Writers

#scribendiinc

Graduation day is a whirlwind of emotion and activity. Between posing for photos, nervously waiting to finally accept your diploma on the stage, and saying farewell to friends and professors, it is easy to forget what was said in the commencement address.

Some of the best commencement speeches of all time were given by writers who, like most commencement speakers, achieved incredible success. Their unique world view allows them to make complex issues relatable to all people. They take their own experiences and shape them into the experience of every reader. In the following commencement speeches, authors address future innovators, thinkers, and leaders preparing to take on a new role in the world.

1. J.K. Rowling, Harvard University, 2008

J.K. Rowling is the bestselling author of the Harry Potter series. Before becoming a brilliant author and humanitarian, she was what some might consider a failure. She, like many of us, was struggling to find her place in the world and to balance her responsibilities with her passion for writing. It was hitting rock bottom that propelled her to put pen to paper and follow her dreams.

"Failure meant a stripping away of the inessential. I stopped pretending to myself that I was anything other than what I was, and began to direct all my energy into finishing the only work that mattered to me."

2. Madeleine L'Engle, Wellesley College, 1991

Madeleine L'Engle is an award-winning author whose novels include A Wrinkle in Time and The Arm of the Starfish . During her address, she traced her journey through education. An elementary school teacher pushed her to pursue her creative interests, and L'Engle stressed the importance of finding people who believe in you and encourage you to tackle the impossible.

"Remember that one of the glories of being human is that we are fallible. We are the creatures who learn by making mistakes. I don't know about you, but I learn by what I do wrong, not by what I do right."

3. Shonda Rhimes, Dartmouth University, 2014

Shonda Rhimes is an award-winning screenwriter; Grey's Anatomy , Scandal , and How to Get Away with Murder are all products of her mind. After graduating, she had a very specific career path in mind: become Toni Morrison. She dreamed and dreamed until she eventually realized there could only be one Toni Morrison. She then entered film school, and the rest was history. Her advice to the Dartmouth class of 2014? Stop dreaming and start doing.

"Ditch the dream and be a doer, not a dreamer. Maybe you know exactly what it is you dream of being, or maybe you're paralyzed because you have no idea what your passion is. The truth is, it doesn't matter. You don't have to know. You just have to keep moving forward."

4. Neil Gaiman, University of the Arts, 2012

Neil Gaiman is an author and screenwriter famous for such works as The Sandman , American Gods , and Coraline . He never attended post-secondary school because he knew exactly what he wanted to be right after high school. He pictured his goal of becoming an author as a mountain, and he only made choices that brought him closer to the top. He eventually reached it, and his only regret is that he didn't enjoy the success. He was always looking forward instead of living in the moment.

"That was the hardest lesson for me, I think: to let go and enjoy the ride, because the ride takes you to some remarkable and unexpected places."

5. Louise Erdrich, Dartmouth University, 2009

Louise Erdrich is a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer and a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. Her notable works include Love Medicine and Tracks . When she was a student at Dartmouth University, she worked as a prep cook in the cafeteria. After an afternoon of chopping onions, she smelled horrible when she went to her next class. Instead of leaving, she sat and did her work at the risk of humiliation. This is how the Law of the Onion was created.

"The Law of the Onion. It goes something like this: you have to risk humiliation if you want to move forward. But the Law of the Onion also states: don't take things personally. If other people's opinions are not personal to you, good or bad, you have a kind of freedom to be who you are."

6. Nora Ephron, Wellesley College, 1996

Nora Ephron is a novelist and screenwriter responsible for such classics as You've Got Mail and Sleepless in Seattle . She advised graduates to prepare for change. Who you are today and what is most important to you right now will not be the same later in your life, and that's okay. You will grow, your priorities will change, and eventually you will end up where you want to be.

"What are you going to do? Everything, is my guess. It will be a little messy, but embrace the mess. It will be complicated, but rejoice in the complications. It will not be anything like what you think it will be like, but surprises are good for you."

7. Ray Bradbury, Caltech University, 2000

Ray Bradbury, author of Fahrenheit 451 and The Martian Chronicles , demanded that graduates follow their passions and dreams. He noted that technology is changing the way we do things, yet we still only have so much time. You have an obligation to the universe to use your time to discover who you are and what you want, and to go after it.

"You've been put here because the universe exists. There's no use the universe existing, if there isn't someone there to see it. Your job is to see it. Your job is to witness. To witness; to understand; to comprehend and to celebrate!"

8. Amy Poehler, Harvard University, 2011

Amy Poehler is an actress, comedian, and author famous for her work on Saturday Night Live and Parks and Recreation . In her commencement speech, she imparted some of this wisdom: find people. Find people who support you and challenge you to be better. You can go through life alone, but it is a lot more fun to go through it with others.

"Listen, say yes, live in the moment, make sure you play with people who have your back, make big choices early and often."

9. Zadie Smith, New School, 2014

Zadie Smith is a novelist and short story writer whose works include White Teeth and On Beauty . In her commencement speech, she recognized that we are all unique beings, but at the same time we are part of the larger human race, and it takes many people working together to change the world.

"It feels good to give your unique and prestigious selves a slip every now and then and confess your membership in this unwieldy collective called the human race."

10. Margaret Atwood, University of Toronto, 1983

Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid's Tale , used her address to emphasize that even though we are human and can't control everything, we can control ourselves and our reactions to hardships. Our attitudes toward important issues can change the outcomes if we fight and make our voices heard.

"When faced with the inevitable, you always have a choice. You may not be able to alter reality, but you can alter your attitude towards it."

11. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Wellesley College, 2015

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is the award-winning author of such works as Americanah and Half of a Yellow Sun . She quit medical school to pursue a career in writing. Fortunately, the risk paid off. She notes that if the outcome had been different, if she had failed at becoming an author, it wouldn't have mattered. The important thing is that she tried, and she asks graduates to try and keep trying.

"We cannot always bend the world into the shapes we want, but we can try, we can make a concerted and real and true effort…. And so as you graduate, as you deal with your excitement and your doubts today, I urge you to try and create the world you want to live in."

12. Toni Morrison, Wellesley College, 2004

Toni Morrison is a Nobel Prize and Pulitzer Prize-winning American novelist most known for Beloved . She pointed out that the graduates of today will soon become the decision-makers of the world and that the mistakes of past generations do not need to be repeated.

"You are your own stories and therefore free to imagine and experience what it means to be human without wealth. What it feels like to be human without domination over others, without reckless arrogance, without fear of others unlike you, without rotating, rehearsing and reinventing the hatreds you learned in the sandbox. And although you don't have complete control over the narrative (no author does, I can tell you), you could nevertheless create it."

13. Anna Quindlen, Villanova University, 2000

Anna Quindlen is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist. She advised graduates to get a life outside of work, because you cannot be the best at your work if it is all you have. It does not matter how big your house is or how much money you have; what matters is the people standing beside you.

"Get a life in which you are not alone. Find people you love, and who love you. And remember that love is not leisure, it is work."

14. Anne Lamott, University of California, Berkeley, 2003

Anne Lamott is a novelist and nonfiction writer. In her commencement address, she noted that there is often a lot of pressure for young people to follow a certain path laid out by family or society. Lamott reminded graduates that they do not have to follow these plans. Their goal should not be following someone else's standards for their lives, but figuring out who they want to be.

 "Your problem is how you are going to spend this one odd and precious life you have been issued. Whether you're going to spend it trying to look good and creating the illusion that you have power over people and circumstances, or whether you are going to taste it, enjoy it and find out the truth about who you are."

15. Stephen King, Vassar College, 2001

Stephen King has had tremendous success as an author, writing such classics as It and The Shining . In his commencement address, he did not paint a rose-colored picture of the future, but he did share one of his own experiences. He has accumulated a fortune from his work, but after being in a car accident, he realized that his fortune doesn't mean anything. Instead of accumulating wealth, we should focus on using our power to do good.

"We come in naked and broke. We may be dressed when we go out, but we're just as broke."

16. John Green, Kenyon College, 2016

John Green is a young adult fiction writer, known for Paper Towns and Looking for Alaska . His speech reflected on his experiences entering adulthood, what it means to be a part of the "interconnected web of the human story," and the best advice he's ever received: don't be a jerk.

"You are about to be a nobody. And that's important, because when you become a somebody, if you can remember what it was like to be a nobody, you won't be a jerk."

The future can be daunting to new graduates—you're leaving behind the place you have known and the goals you have striven toward, and you must turn your attention to a new and possibly unknown challenge.

Once the gown has been hung up, the dorm room emptied, and the goodbye hugs given, the words of these authors will be sure to offer direction, comfort, and hope.

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These Great Commencement Speeches Will Change How You Look at Success and Failure

Our greatest actors, writers, musicians, and leaders give really great advice—but it's not just for college graduates.

It's easy to dismiss the lessons delivered in a college commencement speech as reserved for bright, privileged kids with a degree at a fancy school who have their whole lives ahead of them. Anyone still grinding through college or living in the real world probably doesn't exactly feel like the target audience for these inspiring words. And that's not wrong!

But the point of these speeches isn't to give those bright-eyed youngsters lessons for that given moment in time. No one needs advice on how to relax after a lifetime of school and tests and teachers. This advice is for graduates to store away somewhere and remember once real life beats their ass. Because that'll happen. This is advice for the hard times to come. This is advice for the people still struggling away to kick off careers, to make dreams come true, etc., etc.

Barack Obama

School: Howard University

Class: 2016

Most inspiring quote: "So don't try to shut folks out, don't try to shut them down, no matter how much you might disagree with them. There's been a trend around the country of trying to get colleges to disinvite speakers with a different point of view, or disrupt a politician's rally. Don't do that—no matter how ridiculous or offensive you might find the things that come out of their mouths. Because as my grandmother used to tell me, every time a fool speaks, they are just advertising their own ignorance. Let them talk. If you don't, you just make them a victim, and then they can avoid accountability."

Ellen DeGeneres

School:  Tulane University

Class:  2009

Most inspiring quote:  "It was so important for me to lose everything because I found what the most important thing is. The most important thing is to be true to yourself."

School:  Los Angeles Trade Technical College

Class:  2015

Most inspiring quote:  "When you're the absolute best, you get hated on the most."

School:  Smith College

Class:  2012

Most inspiring quote:  "Life is just one, big improvisation." 

Amy Poehler

School:  Harvard University

Class:  2011

Most inspiring quote:  "Try putting your iPhones down every once in awhile and look at people's faces."

Elizabeth Warren

School:  Suffolk University

Class:  2016

Most inspiring quote:  "Knowing who you are will help you when it's time to fight. Fight for the job you want, fight for the people who mean the most to you and fight for the kind of world you want to live in. It will help when people say that's impossible or you can't do that. Look, if you take the unexpected opportunities when they come up, if you know yourself, and if you fight for what you believe in, I can promise that you will live a life that is rich with meaning."

David Byrne

School:  Columbia University

Class:  2013

Most inspiring quote:  "I believe that there is a way to have a very, very satisfying, enriching and creative life in the arts, but it depends on what criteria you use to look at that. But I would say that if you're being creative, with happiness, satisfaction, all that—you're succeeding."

Stephen Colbert

School:  Northwestern University

Most inspiring quote:  "If everybody followed their first dreams in life, the world would be ruled by cowboys and princesses."

Oprah Winfrey

Most inspiring quote:  "It doesn't matter how far you might rise. At some point you are bound to stumble because if you're constantly doing what we do, raising the bar. If you're constantly pushing yourself higher, higher the law of averages not to mention the Myth of Icarus predicts that you will at some point fall. And when you do I want you to know this, remember this: there is no such thing as failure. Failure is just life trying to move us in another direction."

Jon Stewart

School:  The College of William and Mary

Class:  2004

Most inspiring quote:  "So how do you know what is the right path to choose to get the result that you desire? And the honest answer is this: You won't."

George Saunders

School:  Syracuse University

Most inspiring quote:  "What I regret most in my life are failures of kindness. Those moments when another human being was there, in front of me, suffering, and I responded… Sensibly. Reservedly. Mildly."

Meryl Streep

School:  Barnard College

Class:  2010

Most inspiring quote:  "This is your time and it feels normal to you but really there is no normal. There's only change, and resistance to it and then more change."

Neil Gaiman

School:  University of the Arts

Most inspiring quote:  "Husband runs off with a politician? Make good art. Leg crushed and then eaten by mutated boa constrictor? Make good art. IRS on your trail? Make good art. Cat exploded? Make good art. Someone on the Internet thinks what you're doing is stupid or evil or it's all been done before? Make good art. Probably things will work out somehow, and eventually time will take the sting away, but that doesn't matter. Do what only you can do best. Make good art."

Conan O'Brien

School:  Dartmouth College

Most inspiring quote:  "I did a lot of silly, unconventional, spontaneous, and seemingly irrational things, and guess what? With the exception of the blue leather suit, it was the most satisfying and fascinating year of my professional life."

Toni Morrison

School:  Wellesley College

Most inspiring quote:  "Of course, you're general, but you're also specific. A citizen and a person, and the person you are is like nobody else on the planet. Nobody has the exact memory that you have. What is now known is not all what you are capable of knowing. You are your own stories and therefore free to imagine and experience what it means to be human without wealth. What it feels like to be human without domination over others, without reckless arrogance, without fear of others unlike you, without rotating, rehearsing and reinventing the hatreds you learned in the sandbox. And although you don't have complete control over the narrative—no author does, I can tell you—you could nevertheless create it."

Class:  2007

Most inspiring quote:  "Don't let complexity stop you. Be activists. Take on the big inequities. It will be one of the great experiences of your lives."

David Foster Wallace

School:  Kenyon College

Class:  2005

Most inspiring quote:  "The capital-T Truth is about life BEFORE death. It is about the real value of a real education, which has almost nothing to do with knowledge, and everything to do with simple awareness; awareness of what is so real and essential, so hidden in plain sight all around us, all the time, that we have to keep reminding ourselves over and over: 'This is water.'"

Denzel Washington

School:  University of Pennsylvania

Most inspiring quote:  "Fall forward. This is what I mean: Reggie Jackson struck out 2,600 times in his career, the most in the history of baseball. But you don't hear about the strikeouts. People remember the home runs. Fall forward. Thomas Edison conducted 1,000 failed experiments. Did you know that? I didn't know that because the 1,001st was the light bulb. Fall forward. Every failed experiment is one step closer to success."

Zadie Smith

School:  The New School

Class:  2014

Most inspiring quote:  "Walk down these crowded streets with a smile on your face. Be thankful you get to walk so close to other humans. It's a privilege. Don't let your fellow humans be alien to you, and as you get older and perhaps a little less open than you are now, don't assume that exclusive always and everywhere means better. It may only mean lonelier. There will always be folks hard selling you the life of the few: the private schools, private plans, private islands, private life. They are trying to convince you that hell is other people. Don't believe it. We are far more frequently each other's shelter and correction, the antidote to solipsism, and so many windows on this world."

School:  Stanford University

Class: 2005

Most inspiring quote:  "Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose."

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How to Write the Best Commencement Speech – Tips & Examples

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

So, the school principal announced that you’d graduate as the class valedictorian. She also asked you to prepare a commencement speech to send off your classmates with wisdom.

Your commencement speech makes up a substantial part of the graduation ceremony, so you have to make it worth your audience’s while. Here’s a complete guide on how to write a commencement speech with examples.

The Purpose of a Commencement Speech

The purpose of a high school or college commencement speech is to celebrate past experiences from the school and look forward to the future. This is usually given by a graduate. But in some schools, celebrities, politicians, and other notable people also give commencement speeches at graduations.

Like any other speech, a commencement speech also includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. But the body should discuss the following:

• Past memories at school
• The present (graduation ceremony)
• Future dreams and plans

How to Give a Good Commencement Speech

Here are some senior speech ideas and tips to prepare you for graduation.

Pick a Theme

To make your graduation speech more significant to your fellow graduates, try building it around a central message or theme. What do you think is essential to your classmates? Here are some examples.

• Embracing failures in life
• Following your dreams and working for them
• Education is the key to success
• Learning from your mistakes
• Keeping your friendship
• Lifelong learning
• The importance of having big dreams
• Building a community dedicated to wisdom
• Overcoming adversity
• Facing change with grace
• Taking responsibility for your future
• Staying grateful

Once you have picked a theme, it will be easier to outline your address. It’s also more convenient to select the best quotes and stories associated with the idea.

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For example, share stories about your hardships in school if you’re talking about overcoming adversity. Then, research quotes that talk about not giving up.

Start By Thanking Everyone

Learning how to start a commencement speech is essential to catch the audience’s attention. Before sharing life goals, life advice, and your favorite story, begin by thanking the people for their time.

Show appreciation to the graduation class for making it to the end of their high school or college experience. Thank the parents and teachers for their support and everyone for being present at the commencement ceremony.

Another nice thing to do is publicly thank a specific person. Think about a person who helped you at school. Below is an example.

“Thank you, Mr. Smith, for that wonderful speech, and thanks to all the parents, teachers, classmates, and everyone in this room for attending the 56th commencement ceremonies of St. Jude High School. But most of all, I would like to thank my mom for being present today and in every important event of my life.”

Don’t Make It All About You

Valedictorians are usually tasked to give commencement speeches because they represent the whole class. If you’re the valedictorian, congratulations on being on top. But that doesn’t mean you’ll speak only about yourself onstage.

No one wants to hear about why you made it to the podium and the rest of your classmates didn’t. Remember that you represent them. So, you have to speak about them, too.

Talk about your incredible peers and other notable people in high school or college. Share their personal experiences if they allow you. But you can still include personal stories and observations from high school. Balance is key! Consider this example.

“Today, Regis High School has produced another batch of successful graduates. You are the Class of 2022. You finished high school at a historical time. You are born educated in technology… born to be problem solvers… and born to change the world.”

Introduce Yourself

Being the class valedictorian doesn’t mean everyone in the room will instantly know you. For instance, some of your classmates’ parents might not be familiar with your face. You might also need to introduce yourself to VIPs and special guests at the event.

Your self-introduction doesn’t have to be complicated. State your name and why you were chosen to give the speech. For example:

“Good afternoon, everyone. I am Reena Guerrero, Class 2022’s valedictorian.”

Watch Famous Speeches

You can learn a lot from watching famous commencement speeches on YouTube or listening to them on different applications.

Also, consider watching other types of insightful speeches so you can receive guidance on speech writing. Or watch a hilarious speech so you can take inspiration from their jokes.

But make sure to refrain from copying even a single sentence of the speech. Otherwise, you can get accused of plagiarism. Live your life with integrity and understand that your educational experience differs from the speaker you’re watching.

Reflect on the Past

Make your graduation speech memorable by looking back on your favorite memories with the incredible student body. Consider fun memories like your prom, homecoming, and other parties. But make sure these stories are relevant to your theme.

For example, if you have a primary message about courage, talk about classmates who never gave up on a group project. Share a story about a school organization that stood up to bullying.

Recognize your strong friend for continuing his studies despite challenges. This is also the right time to thank a special teacher for being a compassionate person.

After taking a trip down memory lane, it’s time to focus on the future. Imagine your classmates’ next career step and everyone’s professional life after school. Don’t leave them sad about the past. Make them excited about their future. Below is an example.

“North Salem High School was a rollercoaster of experiences. We went through so much during the last four years. We often debated trivial situations, such as basketball games and prom dresses. But despite the fighting, we’ve always known we had each other’s backs. No one leaves the class until everyone understands the lesson. No one also gets left behind in terms of all the fun!”

Use a Motivational Quote

Your graduation speech is an opportunity to insert your favorite quotes. Make sure they still align with your key messages.

Famous Quotes from Business Leaders and Other Public Figures

“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” – Fred DeVito “The future rewards those who press on. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself. I don’t have time to complain. I’m going to press on.” – Barack Obama “If you want to be the best, you have to do things other people aren’t willing to do.” – Michael Phelps “Keep your face toward the sunshine and shadows will always fall behind you.” – Walt Whitman “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” – Arleen Lorrance

Hilarious Quotes for College Students

“I’m sick of following my dreams. I’m just going to ask them where they’re goin’, and hook up with them later.” – Mitch Hedberg “The best advice I can give anybody about going out into the world is this: Don’t do it. I have been out there. It is a mess.” – Russell Baker “The main difference for you, between life yesterday and life tomorrow, is you can go to the bathroom whenever you want. It’s a pretty big responsibility, but you’ve earned it.” – Eugene Mirman “Life is an improvisation. You have no idea what’s going to happen next, and you are mostly just making things up as you go along.” – Stephen Colbert “So be wise, because the world needs more wisdom. And if you cannot be wise, pretend to be someone who is wise, and then just behave as they would.” – Neil Gaiman

Create a Call to Action

One of the best graduation speech ideas during the graduation ceremony is to motivate your classmates to chase the real dream. For example, convince those attending medical school to heal poor communities. If you have classmates pursuing liberal arts education, ask them to uplift marginalized sectors, such as immigrant communities.

Inspire Your Fellow Graduates

While the school’s already out, you still have a huge task to finish: your commencement speech. Writing one for your graduation ceremony is both an honor and a responsibility, so make sure to prepare in advance.

Public speaking can be challenging. But I hope these tips and examples help you write the best commencement speech.

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How to Craft An Outstanding Commencement Speech

Are you tasked with writing a commencement speech? Though it may have you stumped, crafting an outstanding speech is not mission impossible. Here are some tips.

Delivering a graduation speech is a great honor. But, writing one can be tough.

You want to capture the attention of your audience, commemorate your experiences, and impart a bit of wisdom. You want to make the speech your own without making it all about you.

You don't need to have all the answers. Be yourself and focus on the great memories you share with your classmates. 

If you are tasked with writing a commencement speech, we can help! Take a look at these tips to help you prepare for the big day.

Seek Inspiration

For a little inspiration to get you started, watch and read some examples of great commencement speeches of the past. Think about your school and what it means to you.

Make a list of notable memories from your years there and pull those special moments into your speech. Include some insight into how these experiences have changed you.

What has inspired or challenged you during your years at school? Think about the main point you would like to impart to your fellow classmates.

Most of all, it's your classmates' big day. Remember to honor them and the occasion.

Catch Their Attention

At the beginning of any speech, you need to catch the attention of your audience. If not, you will ramble on for a few minutes with only your family listening. 

The stage is yours, so make it count. Find some way to command their attention. 

You can  use humor , an anecdote, or a startling fact. You can raise their curiosity about a particular subject.

You can talk about something personal or something that affects you all. There's no right way to begin. You just have to find a way to draw them in and keep them listening.

Stick With a Theme 

You may have watched speeches in the past where the speaker drones on and on without a central point. You don't want to make this common mistake.

Your message should be one that resonates with everyone. And it should be simple and universal.

Don't choose the value of education as your theme. At this point, your audience know this already. Go with some words of inspiration and avoid overly obvious truths.

Give It Structure

A good speech, like a good story, has a beginning, middle, and an end. Plan your speech to grab people's attention in the beginning, keep their attention through the middle, and tie it together in the end.

Focus the body of your speech on telling a story, offering some insight, or sharing lessons learned. At the end, summarize your main points and give them a call to action regarding their own life. 

Giving a speech some structure doesn't make it formulaic. It makes it easier for people to understand and follow.

Infuse Some Personality

Your classmates don't want to see a know-it-all on stage. They want to see the real you.

Emotional honesty is always a good idea. It makes for a more intriguing speech.

You don't have to know all the answers to life's complex issues. Instead, be honest, kind, and empathetic.

Speak from the heart. When you feel deeply and speak passionately, others listen. Keep this in mind as you write your speech. 

If your audience connects with you on an emotional level, they are more likely will listen and remember what you have to say.

Keep It Short

No one wants to sit through a long speech, even an outstanding one. If you want to impress your audience and keep their attention, keep your speech short and sweet.

You have something important to say, but don't repeat yourself or drone on and on. Ten to fifteen minutes is a good mark to shoot for.

Once you write your speech, edit it, and practice reading it to others. Consider their feedback and edit your speech until you're satisfied with the message and the timeframe.

Show Gratitude

No matter where you are in life, you didn't get there by yourself. Show your humility and thank someone in your speech.

You can acknowledge your parents, teachers, coaches, friends, or any significant person in your life. You may choose to focus on one individual who has been a particular inspiration in your life.

There are no rules about thanking someone in a commencement speech, but it's a nice to include some gratitude in your address. You can encourage your audience to be grateful as well.

Inspire Your Audience

Earning a diploma is a reason to celebrate. But a commencement speech should do more than honor the occasion. 

Focus on what's to come and what life has in store for you and your fellow graduates. No matter what's going on in the world, leave your audience with  some inspiration  and hope for the future.

Focus on Them

You will be on stage because of  your amazing accomplishments . That's great, and you've earned it. 

But remember that your audience doesn't want to hear about all the reasons you're on stage instead of them. Of course, you should talk about yourself, but be sure to turn the focus to your audience.

Recognize them, their accomplishments, and the bright path ahead.

Giving a graduation speech is an honor, and you want it to be a fun experience. Remember that your audience doesn't expect perfection.

Be yourself, relax, and drink in the moment. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity you've earned with your hard work and determination. 

Relax and make it a fun, memorable experience for you, your family, and your peers.

Tips for an Awesome Commencement Speech

As the commencement speaker, you're on center stage for a few minutes. Make those moments count with some positive insight and inspiration for your fellow classmates and friends. 

Following a few basic tips can help you craft a commencement speech you and your audience will treasure. 

Be sure to take a look at our website and the amazing opportunities  our organization  offers for high-achieving students like you. 

Keyword: commencement speech

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You don't need to have all the answers. Be yourself and focus on the great memories you share with your classmates. 

At the beginning of any speech, you need to catch the attention of your audience. If not, you will ramble on for a few minutes with only your family listening. 

The stage is yours, so make it count. Find some way to command their attention. 

You can  use humor , an anecdote, or a startling fact. You can raise their curiosity about a particular subject.

Stick With a Theme 

Don't choose the value of education as your theme. At this point, your audience know this already. Go with some words of inspiration and avoid overly obvious truths.

Focus the body of your speech on telling a story, offering some insight, or sharing lessons learned. At the end, summarize your main points and give them a call to action regarding their own life. 

Speak from the heart. When you feel deeply and speak passionately, others listen. Keep this in mind as you write your speech. 

Earning a diploma is a reason to celebrate. But a commencement speech should do more than honor the occasion. 

Focus on what's to come and what life has in store for you and your fellow graduates. No matter what's going on in the world, leave your audience with  some inspiration  and hope for the future.

You will be on stage because of  your amazing accomplishments . That's great, and you've earned it. 

Be yourself, relax, and drink in the moment. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity you've earned with your hard work and determination. 

As the commencement speaker, you're on center stage for a few minutes. Make those moments count with some positive insight and inspiration for your fellow classmates and friends. 

Following a few basic tips can help you craft a commencement speech you and your audience will treasure. 

Be sure to take a look at our website and the amazing opportunities  our organization  offers for high-achieving students like you. 

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Graduation Speech: Complete Guide & Inspiring Graduation Speech Examples

Ready to toss your caps in the air and bid farewell to the hallowed halls of academia? 

Not so fast…There’s one final thing left to learn about: graduation speeches!

Sure, they might seem like just another routine part of commencement, but graduation speeches are much more than just a formality. 

From tear-jerking tales to laugh-out-loud lessons, the best graduation speeches can be vehicles to share wisdom, life lessons, and unforgettable memories. 

Maybe you’re feeling uncertain about how to craft a graduation speech that people actually want to hear… Or wondering what can turn a good one into a great one…Or, simply looking for inspiration on memorable graduation speech examples. 

Read on to explore all of the above and more in this comprehensive guide on graduation speeches. 

• What is a graduation speech?
• What is the purpose of a graduation speech?

What makes a great graduation speech?

• Steps to Write a Student Graduation Speech [7 Steps]
• Inspiring Graduation Speech Examples [8 Examples]

What is a graduation speech? 

First things first: Let’s define what a graduation speech is exactly. 

A graduation speech is more than just a ceremonial tradition —it’s a speech that combines a heartfelt send-off, a final farewell, and a celebration of achievement all rolled into one.

These speeches are typically delivered by a selected speaker, such as a notable figure, a faculty member, or a student representative, at the commencement, or graduation ceremony.

But what exactly is the purpose behind these speeches, and why do we place such importance on them?

A graduation speech serves as a symbolic bridge between the academic journey and the adventures that lie ahead. It’s a chance for speakers to reflect on the accomplishments, challenges, and growth experienced by graduates throughout their academic careers. And most importantly, it’s an opportunity to share some wisdom, inspiration, and encouragement as graduates embark on their next chapter.

What is the purpose of a graduation speech? 

The purpose of a graduation speech varies depending on the context and the goals of the speaker. But generally, it serves several key purposes:

Let’s break it down:

• Celebrate: Graduation is a big deal, right? So, the speech is a way to celebrate all the hard work and sweat equity that graduates have contributed towards their student experience. And its graduation is a huge achievement worth celebrating!
• Inspire and Motivate: Many graduates feel nervous and apprehensive about what comes next after graduation. As happy as they may be to finally be graduating, many students feel a sense of confusion and discouragement about the future. Graduation speeches are meant to motivate and encourage the graduating class as they wrap up their student experience. It’s all about making them feel inspired as they look towards their future.
• Reflect: Remember all those fun times you had in school? Even the monotonous and routine hustle of being in school will become times you can look back on, joke about, and reminisce on for the rest of your life. Graduation speeches offer a chance to look back on the graduating class memories and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Bringing Everyone Together: Graduation is a time for friends, family, and teachers to come together and cheer the graduating class on. The speech helps everyone feel connected and proud of what’s been achieved.
• Closure: Graduation speeches offer closure to the academic journey, providing a symbolic farewell and a sense of completion to graduates as they bid farewell to their alma mater. 
• Legacy: Graduation speeches leave a lasting legacy for graduates, offering timeless wisdom, inspiration, and guidance that they can carry with them as they embark on their future endeavors. They serve as a reminder of the values, lessons, and aspirations that define the graduate experience and shape the path forward.

Overall, the purpose of a graduation speech is to leave a lasting impact on the audience, imparting valuable insights, encouragement, and inspiration that resonate long after the ceremony has ended.

Great graduation speeches captivate audiences by weaving together universal themes, inspiring messages, and deep reflection to create a memorable and inspiring experience.

So what makes a graduation speech great ? While every speech is unique in itself, there are some common elements that all great speeches have.

Here are some key elements that contribute to a great graduation speech:

• Authenticity: A great graduation speech is authentic and genuine, reflecting the speaker’s personality, values, and experiences. 
• Personal Touch: Incorporating personal anecdotes, stories, and reflections adds depth and emotional resonance to a graduation speech. Sharing personal experiences allows the speaker to connect with the audience and make the speech more engaging.
• Inspiring Message: A great graduation speech delivers an inspiring and uplifting message that motivates graduates to embrace their potential, pursue their passions, and make a difference in the world. The message should be positive, empowering, and filled with hope for the future.
• Relevance: A great graduation speech is relevant to the occasion and the audience, addressing the unique challenges, triumphs, and experiences shared by graduates. It acknowledges the journey they’ve been on and offers guidance as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
• Clear Structure: A well-structured graduation speech flows smoothly from one point to the next, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
• Engaging Delivery: A great graduation speech is delivered with passion, energy, and enthusiasm, capturing the attention and interest of the audience from start to finish. 
• Humor and Wit: Incorporating humor and wit into a graduation speech can lighten the mood, break the ice, and make the speech more enjoyable for the audience. Humorous anecdotes, clever wordplay, and well-timed jokes can add charm to the speech, making it more entertaining.
• Universal Themes: A great graduation speech explores universal truths that resonate with all graduates, regardless of their background or experiences. It touches on timeless values such as perseverance, resilience, gratitude, and the power of human connection, inspiring graduates to embrace these principles as they navigate life’s challenges.

By incorporating these elements into your own graduation speech, you can create memorable, inspiring, and impactful words that leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Steps to Write a Student Graduation Speech

Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of writing a graduation speech? That’s normal! 

Even for famous and/or notable figures, writing a commencement or graduation speech can be a nerve-wracking experience.

And while writing a commencement speech may seem like a daunting task, breaking it down into basic steps can make the process more manageable and enjoyable.

Here’s a simple guide to help you craft a memorable and inspiring graduation speech:

Step 1: Understand Your Audience

Before you begin writing your speech, take some time to understand your audience. That is, the graduating class, faculty and staff, and family and friends of everyone involved in the ceremony. 

Consider the demographics of the graduates, their interests, experiences, and the significance of the occasion.

Tailoring your speech to resonate with the audience will make it more relatable and impactful.

Step 2: Choose a Theme or Message

Every great speech has a central theme or message that ties everything together. 

Think about what you want to convey to the graduates—whether it’s words of wisdom, encouragement, or reflections on their journey.

Choose a theme that resonates with the occasion and reflects your personal values and experiences.

Step 3: Brainstorm Ideas and Stories

Once you have a theme in mind, brainstorm ideas, stories, and anecdotes that support your message.

Reflect on your own experiences, lessons learned, and moments of inspiration that you can share with the graduates.

Consider incorporating personal stories, quotes, or examples that illustrate your points and make them more memorable.

Step 4: Create an Outline

Organize your ideas into a clear and coherent outline for your speech.

Start with an introduction that grabs the audience’s attention and introduces your theme. Then, outline the main points you want to cover in the body of the speech. Use supporting stories and examples to illustrate each point.

Finally, conclude your speech with powerful closing remarks that reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression.

Step 5: Write the Speech

With your outline as a guide, start writing your speech , focusing on clarity, conciseness, and authenticity.

Write in a conversational tone, as if you’re speaking directly to the graduates, and use concise language.

Be sure to include transitions between sections to help the speech flow smoothly and keep the audience engaged.

Step 6: Edit and Revise

Once you’ve written a draft of your speech, take time to edit and revise it for clarity, coherence, and impact.

Cut out any unnecessary or repetitive information, and refine your language to make it more concise and compelling.

Pay attention to pacing, tone, and rhythm, and make sure your speech is well-balanced and engaging from start to finish.

Step 7: Practice, Practice, Practice

Finally, practice delivering your speech aloud multiple times to ensure smooth delivery and confident presentation.

Pay attention to your pacing, timing, hand gestures , and body language, and make adjustments as needed. 

Practicing your speech will help you feel more comfortable and confident on the day of the graduation ceremony.

Here are some tips to help you write a memorable speech:

• Share Your Journey: Reflect on your time in school, highlighting challenges you overcame, lessons you learned, and accomplishments you achieved.
• Inspire with Stories: Share inspiring anecdotes or life lessons that have shaped you and can resonate with your peers.
• Express Gratitude: Thank teachers, family, and friends for their support and guidance throughout your academic journey.
• Offer Encouragement: Provide motivation and encouragement to your fellow graduates as they embark on their future endeavors.

By following these basic steps and tips, you can write a graduation speech that is memorable and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on graduates and audience members for years to come.

8 Inspiring Graduation Speech Examples

If you’re looking to get inspired or need some examples to work from, check out some of the most memorable graduation speeches delivered by today’s notable figures. 

These speeches showcase how some of the world’s most influential people have delivered impactful messages of change, hard work, success, and life lessons to graduating classes throughout the years.

By incorporating personal stories, motivational quotes, and heartfelt advice, these examples showcase the profound impact a well-crafted speech can have on any audience.

While we’ve only featured eight graduation speech examples here, please note that there are countless other inspiring speeches that you can learn from throughout history. A quick online search will help guide you in the direction of more examples if you don’t find what you’re looking for in this list. 

#1 – Steve Jobs’ Stanford University Graduation Speech (2005)

Jobs’s speech is a classic for a reason. He challenged graduates to “stay hungry, stay foolish,” and to never lose sight of their dreams. 

#2 – Oprah Winfrey’s Harvard University Graduation Speech (2013)

Oprah Winfrey reflects on her own journey to success, emphasizing the importance of finding purpose, serving others, and remaining true to oneself in the face of adversity.

#3 –  Chadwick Boseman’s Howard University Graduation Speech (2018)

The late Chadwick Boseman, shortly before his passing, delivered an inspiring speech about the power of purpose and never giving up on your dreams.

#4 – J.K. Rowling’s Harvard University Graduation Speech (2008)

J.K. Rowling shares insights on the benefits of failure and the importance of imagination, empathy, and resilience in overcoming life’s challenges and achieving success.

#5 – Michelle Obama’s CCNY Graduation Speech (2016)

Michelle Obama reflects on the power of education and the importance of resilience, determination, and hope in overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s dreams.

#6 – David Foster Wallace’s Kenyon College Graduation Speech (2005)

David Foster Wallace’s speech, titled “This is Water,” is a profound meditation on mindfulness and empathy. Wallace delivers a thought-provoking speech about the value of mindfulness, empathy, and perspective in leading a meaningful and fulfilling life.

#7 – Satya Nadella’s University of Chicago Graduation Speech (2018)

The CEO of Microsoft spoke about the future of technology and the need for human-centered innovation. Nadella shares insights on the role of empathy, curiosity, and continuous learning in driving innovation and success in today’s rapidly changing world.

#8 – Ken Burns’ Stanford University Graduation Speech (2016)

The documentarian urged graduates to be curious, to challenge themselves, and to fight for what they believe in.

Learn From Graduation Speech Examples From Notable Figures

As we’ve seen from speeches like the ones listed above, throughout history, famous individuals have delivered impactful speeches that resonate with audiences and offer valuable lessons for graduates.

So how do these notable figures inspire through their speeches?

• Emphasizing Change: Notable figures often highlight the importance of embracing change and adapting to new beginnings in their speeches.
• Hard Work and Success: Through personal anecdotes, they stress the significance of hard work and determination in achieving success.
• Life Lessons: Graduation speeches by renowned figures are filled with insightful life lessons that guide and motivate graduates on their journey ahead.
• Words of Encouragement: Notable graduation speeches give encouragement, confidence, and hope to the audience as they move ahead.

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored how these speeches are more than just a routine part of commencement—they’re opportunities to share wisdom, life lessons, and unforgettable memories.

Whether you were feeling uncertain about crafting a speech that resonates or curious about the secrets behind turning a good speech into a great one, we’ve covered it all.

As you step onto the stage to deliver your graduation speech, remember the power you hold. Inspire, uplift, and connect us all! 

Here’s to making your mark and leaving a lasting impression as you embark on the next chapter of your journey!

Whether you’re giving a graduation speech or a TEDx talk, this free guide will help expand your reach.

Check out more great articles from the Thought-Leader Blog covering TEDx Talks, success mindsets, and everything else in between

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Commencement Speech

Commencement speech generator.

A commencement speech is a powerful address given during graduation ceremonies, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as beautiful landscapes, kind words, or even life’s challenges. It marks a pivotal moment as graduates transition from academia to adulthood, embarking on new journeys. Whether pursuing careers, further education, or personal growth, graduates use inspiration to navigate their paths. This speech celebrates achievements, offers wisdom, and provides motivation to balance professional and personal life, guiding graduates as they begin their journey into the real world.

What is a Commencement Speech?

A commencement speech is a motivational address given during graduation ceremonies to inspire graduates. It reflects on achievements, acknowledges challenges, and encourages embracing the future with resilience, gratitude, and purpose.

20 All Time Great Commencement Speeches

1. steve jobs’ 2005 stanford commencement address.

Summary: Steve Jobs, in his speech at Stanford, reflects on his personal life experiences and the lessons he learned from them. He structures his address around three stories from his life, each highlighting different lessons that are pivotal to his personal and professional growth. These stories revolve around the themes of ‘connecting the dots’, ‘love and loss’, and ‘death’.

Main Points:

• Jobs discusses his decision to drop out of Reed College, which initially seemed like a failure but allowed him to drop in on classes he was interested in, such as calligraphy. This, he explains, was crucial in developing the distinctive aesthetics of Apple products. He emphasizes that while one cannot predict the future, the dots will somehow connect down the road.
• He narrates his journey with Apple, from starting it in his parents’ garage to being fired from it after it had grown into a multi-billion dollar company. Despite the painful experience of being ousted, Jobs shares how this led him to enter one of the most creative periods of his life, leading to the creation of NeXT and Pixar, and eventually bringing him back to Apple. This story underscores the importance of finding what you love and persevering through challenges.
• Jobs talks about his diagnosis with pancreatic cancer and facing the reality of death. This confrontation with mortality served as a crucial reminder to live fully and to not waste time living someone else’s life. He stresses the importance of following one’s own heart and intuition.

2. Jeff Bezos, Princeton University, 2010

Summary: Jeff Bezos’ speech at Princeton revolved around a series of questions he learned to ask from his grandfather, emphasizing the impact of our choices. He shared anecdotes from his life, including his decision to start Amazon, to illuzstrate how these choices shape our futures. He urged graduates to be adventurous, bold, and kind in their life choices.

• Bezos recounts a story from his childhood, where his grandmother was upset about his grandfather’s smoking habit. Instead of scolding him, his grandfather imparted a lesson about how we choose to react to situations, teaching young Bezos about kindness and perception.
• He distinguished between gifts (talents we are born with) and choices (decisions we make that reflect our character). Bezos emphasized that while we may have natural talents, our choices are far more important in shaping our lives.
• He described his decision to start Amazon, highlighting how he left a comfortable job to pursue what was then just an idea. This move was driven by a desire to avoid regret for not having tried something new and challenging.
• Bezos introduced a series of questions to challenge the graduates, including whether they would choose a life of ease or a life of service and adventure. These questions aimed to provoke thoughts on integrity, regret, and personal responsibility.
• Throughout his speech, Bezos stressed the importance of being kind and maintaining integrity. He posited that these qualities are choices that define who we truly are beyond our innate abilities.
• He offered a decision-making framework focused on minimizing future regrets. Bezos advocated for a bold approach to life’s choices, suggesting that our most significant regrets tend to be acts of omission rather than commission—things we did not do rather than things we did.

3. J.K. Rowling Harvard Commencement Speech, 2008

Summary: In her address, Rowling described her own early failures and how these setbacks paved the way for her success as an author. She spoke about the benefits of failing and how hitting rock bottom was foundational in allowing her to focus on what she truly valued. Rowling also emphasized the power of imagination not just in storytelling but in fostering empathy and making impactful changes in society.

• Rowling discussed her own post-college failures, including a short-lived marriage and a career that didn’t meet her expectations. These experiences, she said, stripped away the inessential, leaving her to pursue her true passion—writing. She considered her early adult failure as liberating rather than defining.
• She described rock bottom as the solid foundation on which she rebuilt her life. This part of her life was crucial because it freed her to focus on writing, the only work that truly mattered to her, without distraction.
• Beyond its role in creating fictional worlds, Rowling highlighted imagination’s power to foster empathy. She urged graduates to use their capacity to envision other people’s lives, particularly those who are suffering, to drive change and make better ethical decisions.
• Drawing from her experiences working at Amnesty International, Rowling shared stories of people who endured incredible hardships and used their imaginations not to escape but to empathize with others and to change their circumstances.
• She encouraged the graduates to not just strive for a successful life in conventional terms but to consider the importance of living a meaningful life. This, according to Rowling, involves introspection, ethical living, and compassion towards others.
• Rowling stressed the importance of having the courage to follow one’s beliefs against the odds. This could mean standing up for what is right, even when it is not easy, and making decisions that reflect one’s values and moral compass.

4. David Foster Wallace, Kenyon College, 2005

Summary: Wallace opened his speech with a short parable about two young fish who do not understand what water is. He used this story to illustrate the point that the most obvious and important realities are often the hardest to see. His address then focused on the day-to-day choices that define a life and the default settings of thinking that everyone battles against.

• Wallace argued that a default setting of how we construct meaning from experiences often goes unquestioned. This setting dictates that we interpret everything in the world as it relates to ourselves, often leading to a narrow, self-centered point of view.
• The core of his message was the importance of being well-adjusted to think critically and consciously choose how to perceive and respond to others. He emphasized that the real value of education isn’t just about learning how to think, but learning how to exercise control over what you think about and how.
• Wallace discussed the significance of stepping outside oneself to empathize with others, especially in mundane and frustrating life scenarios. He highlighted that true freedom involves attention, awareness, discipline, and effort—not just the capacity to think, but the choice of what to think about.
• He pushed the graduates to be aware of others, to exercise patience, and to maintain a conscious awareness of the world around them, even in the most ordinary moments. He suggested that the default human settings lead to loneliness and isolation, but being aware can lead to a more fulfilling and compassionate life.
• Wallace warned against unconscious living where people end up worshipping the wrong things like money, power, or beauty—things that will not fulfill the deeper need for purpose and meaning. He stressed that the kind of freedom that really matters involves being critically aware and making informed, moral choices.

5. Barack Obama, Howard University, 2016

Summary: Obama’s speech celebrated the achievements and progress of black Americans, acknowledged the challenges that still persist, and emphasized the responsibilities that come with being a beneficiary of the civil rights movement. He provided guidance on how to navigate the complexities of modern society and contribute positively to the country.

• Obama highlighted the progress made in America in terms of race relations and civil rights. He cited examples like the increase in black elected officials and improvements in educational attainment for minority students as indicators of positive change.
• He stressed the importance of political engagement and the power of voting. Obama argued that disengagement from the political process leads to a vacuum that does not help in making changes necessary for progress.
• While acknowledging progress, Obama also discussed the persistent problems of systemic racism, economic inequality, and mass incarceration. He emphasized that these issues require continuous effort and innovative solutions.
• Obama called on the graduates to take responsibility not just for themselves but for their community and country as well. He inspired them to be role models and leaders who can uplift others and fight for justice and equality.
• He advised the graduates to engage in constructive criticism. Obama noted that change requires listening, compromise, and reconciliation with those who have different views. He encouraged thoughtful discourse and engagement, even with opponents.
• A recurring theme in his speech was the importance of empathy. Obama urged the graduates to understand and relate to the experiences and hardships of others, both within and outside their own communities.
• Finally, he emphasized that achieving justice and equality requires persistent action and optimism. Obama inspired the graduates to lead the way in making America a better place for future generations.

6. Oprah Winfrey, Harvard University, 2013

Summary: Oprah’s speech wove together her personal experiences of setbacks and comebacks, emphasizing the lessons learned from failures. She encouraged the graduates to face challenges head-on, embrace the inevitable failures, and use them as stepping stones for growth. Oprah also highlighted the importance of living a life of substance that contributes positively to the lives of others.

• Oprah discussed her own professional setbacks, particularly the initial struggles of launching her cable network, OWN. She talked about how these failures were instrumental in teaching her valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance.
• She urged the graduates to find their purpose and align it with service to others. Oprah stressed that personal success becomes more meaningful when it positively impacts others and contributes to a greater good.
• A major theme of her speech was the power of belief in oneself. Oprah emphasized the importance of maintaining self-belief in the face of challenges and setbacks. She encouraged the graduates to hold onto their convictions and to always trust their gut.
• Oprah advised the audience to learn from every experience, good or bad. She highlighted that every encounter and every incident provides a learning opportunity that should be valued.
• Reflecting on her personal and career achievements, Oprah highlighted the fulfillment she derives from giving back to the community and making a difference in others’ lives. She encouraged the graduates to look for ways to give back and to always extend a helping hand.
• Oprah spoke about cultivating inner strength and resilience. She stressed that while it is impossible to avoid difficulties, the ability to get back up and continue forward is crucial.
• She closed with a call to live life with integrity and to ensure that one’s personal values align with their actions, making a point that integrity is the cornerstone of a life well-lived.

7. Sheryl Sandberg, UC Berkeley, 2016

Summary: Sandberg shared her personal journey of coping with her husband’s unexpected death, and how this tragic event taught her lessons about resilience, gratitude, and finding joy in the face of adversity. She used her own experiences to inspire the graduates to persevere through their own challenges, and to build resilience for the difficult moments they would inevitably face in life.

• Sandberg opened up about the depth of her grief following her husband’s death, describing it as a challenge that initially seemed insurmountable. She shared these personal details to connect with the audience on a very human level.
• She discussed psychologist Martin Seligman’s theory that resilience can be built by addressing personalization, pervasiveness, and permanence. She emphasized not taking setbacks personally, not allowing setbacks to affect unrelated areas of life, and remembering that hardships may not last forever.
• Sandberg spoke about the importance of gratitude even in the darkest times. She shared how consciously counting her blessings each day helped her find deeper appreciation for life, even amidst her grief.
• She encouraged the graduates to find joy and meaning in their lives, stressing that it is possible to find growth and happiness after great loss. Sandberg quoted a psychologist who found that people who were able to find meaning in terrible times were more resilient.
• Sandberg talked about the importance of communication in overcoming adversity. She described her own experiences returning to work at Facebook, where addressing her pain openly with colleagues helped to alleviate it.
• She advised the graduates on how they could support others facing adversity, emphasizing the importance of showing up, acknowledging others’ pain, and offering personal and heartfelt support.
• Sandberg concluded with a call for collective resilience, urging the audience to lean on and support each other. She highlighted the importance of community and shared strength in overcoming personal and collective challenges.

8. Conan O’Brien, Dartmouth College, 2011

Summary: O’Brien addressed the graduates by reflecting on his public departure from NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” using his own experiences to discuss the broader themes of disappointment and recovery. He emphasized the transformative power of setbacks and the importance of perseverance, while interlacing his message with humor and wit.

• O’Brien shared his own story of perceived failure when he lost “The Tonight Show.” He discussed how this setback, while initially devastating, taught him invaluable lessons about resilience and the unexpected paths life can take.
• He advised the graduates that while their Plan A might not always work out, there is great value in a Plan B that is often hard-earned through adversity. O’Brien emphasized that adapting to changes can lead to even better outcomes.
• O’Brien cautioned against cynicism, describing it as a choice that can negatively impact one’s perspective on life. He encouraged the graduates to remain optimistic and open to possibilities, regardless of the challenges they face.
• He shared how his career upheaval provided him with unexpected clarity and focus, helping him to identify what was truly important in his life and career, beyond fame and conventional success.
• Beyond just achieving personal success, O’Brien stressed the importance of being kind and considerate. He highlighted that true achievement includes how one treats others and impacts the world positively.
• He concluded by reminding the graduates to find joy in the journey, not just the destination. O’Brien emphasized that success is not just about reaching a set goal but also about the experiences and growth along the way.

9. Michelle Obama, City College of New York, 2016

Summary: Michelle Obama’s speech focused on the historical significance of City College as a beacon of opportunity for immigrants and students from all walks of life. She shared stories of students who overcame significant obstacles to achieve their educational goals. The First Lady encouraged graduates to take pride in their heritage and background, and to use their education to effect positive change in their communities and beyond.

• Michelle Obama highlighted the strength found in diversity, noting how City College’s legacy of inclusivity has contributed to its vibrant community. She urged graduates to continue embracing and celebrating diversity in their future endeavors.
• She acknowledged the societal and personal challenges that students had to overcome to graduate, such as financial hardship and discrimination. Her message was one of resilience—encouraging students to continue overcoming barriers and to support others facing similar challenges.
• The First Lady emphasized the transformative power of education, not just as a personal achievement but as a tool for societal change. She inspired graduates to use their education to challenge injustices and contribute to their communities.
• Michelle Obama called on graduates to actively participate in democracy and to not be bystanders. She stressed the importance of voting, engaging in community service, and standing up against discrimination and inequality.
• She spoke about the moral responsibility of the graduates to take on challenges bigger than themselves, to aim for high ideals, and to strive for honesty, integrity, and a commitment to justice.
• Despite acknowledging the complexities and challenges of the world, Michelle Obama delivered a message of hope and optimism. She encouraged the graduates to remain hopeful and to believe in their ability to make a difference.

10. Ellen DeGeneres, Tulane University, 2009

Summary: Ellen DeGeneres’ speech focused on her personal journey of self-acceptance and the courage to be true to oneself. She shared her struggles and successes, highlighting the importance of staying true to one’s values and finding one’s own path in life. Ellen’s speech encouraged graduates to embrace who they are, face challenges with humor, and impact the world positively.

• Ellen shared her experiences of coming out as gay in the mid-90s when it was less accepted, emphasizing how difficult yet liberating it was to embrace her true self. She stressed the importance of authenticity and the courage it takes to live openly.
• Reflecting on the backdrop of Hurricane Katrina, Ellen praised the resilience of the students and the city of New Orleans. She highlighted how adversity can lead to strength and renewal, and used this as a metaphor for personal challenges.
• Throughout her speech, Ellen emphasized the importance of finding joy and humor even in difficult times. She encouraged the graduates to approach life’s challenges with a positive attitude and laughter.
• Ellen urged the graduates to use their lives to make a difference in whatever way they can. She spoke about the impact of small acts of kindness and the importance of contributing to the community and the world.
• She discussed her unconventional path to success, which included various odd jobs and setbacks before finding her true calling in comedy and television. This highlighted her message that there is no set path to success and that each person must find their own way.
• Ellen encouraged the graduates to be open to change and to be willing to take risks for what they believe in. She mentioned that embracing change is crucial for growth and can lead to unexpected opportunities.

11. Neil Gaiman, University of the Arts, 2012

Summary: Neil Gaiman’s speech centered on his experiences as a young writer who ventured into the world with no formal education in writing or plan, but with a clear goal of becoming a professional author. He discussed the virtues of making mistakes, learning from them, and using imagination and creativity to forge one’s own path. His address was both a celebration of creative life and a practical guide to navigating the challenges associated with a career in the arts.

• Gaiman’s central message was to encourage the graduates to “make good art.” He advised using the creation of art as a response to both good and bad times—whether experiencing success or failure, the answer should always be to make good art.
• He recounted how his ignorance of the rules and norms of the publishing industry was a blessing in disguise. It allowed him to explore creative paths and opportunities that might otherwise have seemed impossible or inappropriate.
• Gaiman provided insights into the life of a freelancer, stressing the importance of delivering work on time and being easy to get along with. He noted that even if one’s work isn’t the best, being pleasant and punctual can significantly boost a career.
• He emphasized the importance of living a life that provides material for art. Gaiman encouraged the graduates to say yes to opportunities that would help them gather experiences to feed their creative processes.
• Gaiman shared his belief that mistakes are inevitable and essential. He highlighted that failures are often where one learns the most, and therefore, should not be feared but embraced as valuable learning opportunities.
• Reflecting on his own career, Gaiman urged the graduates to take risks and be bold. He pointed out that some of his greatest successes came from projects that initially seemed like they might be disastrous.
• He touched on the feeling of impostor syndrome, which many creatives experience, and discussed the importance of overcoming these doubts and continuing to create regardless of them.

12. Bill Gates, Harvard University, 2007

Summary: In his speech, Gates spoke about how his exposure to global health disparities profoundly affected him. He urged the graduates to consider how they could use their education, skills, and energies to tackle global issues such as poverty, disease, and inequity. Gates emphasized the power of technology and innovation in making a significant impact and highlighted the need for a more equitable distribution of health and educational resources worldwide.

• Gates shared his and his wife Melinda’s experiences with global health crises and poverty, which shifted their focus towards global philanthropy. He stressed how his travels and the data he encountered expanded his worldview, making him more aware of stark global inequalities.
• He pointed out that with privilege comes responsibility, particularly for those who have benefited from excellent educations and resources. Gates challenged the graduates to think about how they could use their advantages to effect positive change in the world.
• Gates encouraged the new graduates to innovate and take action against global issues. He emphasized that many of the greatest challenges in health and education do not receive enough attention and should be the focus of their efforts to apply their knowledge and skills.
• Reflecting on his background in technology, Gates discussed how innovations could lead to solutions for global problems. He highlighted the role of new technologies in improving health outcomes and educational access across the world.
• He expressed a strong moral imperative for helping those less fortunate, stating that inequity should be offensive to all who have the means to help. Gates implored the graduates to not turn away from suffering and to act to alleviate it.
• Despite the daunting challenges he described, Gates remained optimistic about the ability to make a difference. He inspired the graduates with hope that each person could change the world, drawing from his own experiences of seeing impactful results from his foundation’s work.

13. Admiral William H. McRaven, University of Texas at Austin, 2014

Summary: McRaven’s speech revolved around the concept that small actions and moments of discipline and resilience can have a massive impact on the world. He used vivid anecdotes from his SEAL training to illustrate these points, delivering a powerful message of leadership, perseverance, and the influence of individual actions on a larger scale.

• McRaven emphasized the importance of starting the day with a completed task, such as making your bed. He argued that this small achievement sets a positive tone for the day and can provide a sense of pride and accomplishment.
• He highlighted the necessity of teamwork and collaboration. During SEAL training, paddling exercises require precise coordination and mutual support, underscoring the idea that you cannot go through life alone.
• McRaven recounted lessons about the importance of respecting everyone regardless of their size or position. In training, smaller, seemingly weaker recruits often had the most heart—teaching him that the measure of a person is not based on physical attributes.
• He shared stories of “circus” punishments—extra challenges for failures—which taught him perseverance. The lesson was that life isn’t always fair, but one must keep moving forward regardless of the setbacks.
• McRaven discussed the inevitability of failure and the importance of embracing the lessons that come from it. He pointed out that every failure is a step toward success if you learn from it.
• Drawing from a harrowing training exercise called “The Mud Flats,” where trainees endured harsh conditions, McRaven spoke about the power of hope and fighting spirit when facing the most difficult challenges.
• He urged graduates to confront injustices and stand up for what is right, drawing parallels to training exercises where standing up to the “shark” was a literal challenge.
• McRaven emphasized that one should be their very best in the darkest moments. He shared how critical operations often occur under the worst conditions and how true character is revealed in such times.
• He spoke about the importance of giving hope to others, using an example from SEAL training where a simple song lifted spirits during a grueling test.
• Never Give Up:
• Concluding his speech, McRaven reiterated the importance of never giving up, no matter the odds. This was a recurring theme in every story and lesson he shared from SEAL training.

14. George Saunders, Syracuse University, 2013

Summary: Saunders’ speech explored the idea that the things we regret most in life are failures of kindness—those moments when we could have been nicer, more generous, or more compassionate but chose not to be. He argued that kindness becomes increasingly important as we age, and he encouraged the graduates to strive towards becoming kinder over time. His address was both a personal reflection and a universal call to action, urging the graduates to value kindness above all else in their interactions.

• Saunders shared personal anecdotes from his own life, particularly from his youth, where he failed to extend kindness to others. These memories, he noted, linger as his most significant regrets, not professional or material failures.
• He discussed the notion that as we get older, our desire for wealth or fame tends to diminish, but our appreciation for moments of kindness grows. Saunders suggested that kindness enriches our lives and the lives of those around us, making it the most valuable attribute to cultivate.
• Saunders pointed out that kindness is often something we grow into. He proposed that it is achieved through a series of decisions and efforts to be more loving and generous, particularly when it’s difficult.
• The speech highlighted the importance of empathy as a way to foster kindness. Saunders encouraged the graduates to strive to understand others, to imagine their lives and their struggles, as a pathway to caring more deeply about them.
• Saunders discussed the various barriers that prevent kindness, such as fear, prejudice, and the pressure to conform to unkind behaviors. He emphasized the importance of overcoming these barriers to lead a more fulfilled life.
• Reflecting on the rewards of being kind, Saunders mentioned not only the impact on others but also how acts of kindness enrich and give meaning to our own lives. He stressed that kindness returns to us, enhancing our sense of connection and happiness.
• Saunders concluded with a call to action, urging the graduates to begin immediately to increase their kindness, suggesting that even small increments matter. He advocated for a deliberate effort to be kinder as a daily practice.

15. Tim Minchin, University of Western Australia, 2013

Summary: Minchin’s speech was a mix of personal anecdotes, humorous observations, and serious life lessons. He used his platform to challenge traditional narratives about success and happiness, advocating for a more thoughtful and scientifically-minded approach to life. His speech was both an entertaining performance and a deep, meaningful set of guidelines for living a fulfilling life.

• Minchin advised against the common notion that you need a big, lifelong dream. Instead, he suggested having a broad set of passionate interests and pursuing short-term goals passionately, which can lead to an equally fulfilling life.
• He encouraged the graduates to focus on short-term goals and to work hard at whatever is in front of them, arguing that excellence in small tasks leads to potential major achievements.
• Minchin highlighted the importance of understanding that luck plays a significant role in success. Recognizing one’s luck can foster gratitude and a humble perspective.
• He stressed the importance of physical exercise, not just for health, but for its psychological benefits, including its impact on creativity and mental health.
• Minchin encouraged the audience to regularly question and reassess their opinions. He warned against the human tendency to look for evidence that supports pre-existing beliefs, a cognitive bias known as confirmation bias.
• He emphasized the nobility and importance of teaching, urging everyone to share knowledge and enthusiasm and to be proud if they choose to be educators.
• Minchin advised defining oneself by the things one loves rather than the things one opposes. He suggested listing the things you love in conversations and embracing positivity.
• He reminded the graduates to respect and be kind to those who have less power, suggesting that how one treats subordinate individuals is a true measure of character.
• Finally, Minchin warned against the urgency and pressure of the modern world, advocating for taking life slowly to ensure making thoughtful decisions and appreciating everyday experiences.

16. Andy Samberg, Harvard University, 2012

Summary: Samberg’s address at Harvard was predominantly comedic, aiming to entertain the audience with impersonations, playful jabs at prominent figures, and humorous reflections on his own career. Despite the jests, he managed to subtly incorporate advice about embracing life’s unpredictability and the importance of pursuing one’s passions with a sense of humor.

• Samberg encouraged the graduates to maintain a sense of humor regardless of the life path they choose. He emphasized that humor can be a valuable tool for coping with life’s challenges and for connecting with others.
• In his unique way, Samberg reminded the graduates to take pride in their accomplishments at Harvard, one of the world’s most prestigious universities, and to remember the hard work that got them there.
• While his speech was less direct about career advice, his own career trajectory—transitioning from comedy sketches on the internet to becoming a celebrated comedian and actor—served as an implicit example of pursuing one’s passion relentlessly and finding success through perseverance.
• Samberg’s humorous anecdotes about his own experiences in the entertainment industry subtly highlighted the importance of adaptability and staying open to where life might lead you, especially in fields as volatile as the arts.
• He touched on the idea that everyone has the potential to make an impact, whether through their career, personal life, or by simply spreading joy and laughter, as he has chosen to do.
• Between jokes, Samberg alluded to the importance of kindness and decency, which can often be overlooked but are crucial for building meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.

17. Stephen Colbert, Northwestern University, 2011

Summary: Colbert used his time on stage to entertain and enlighten the graduating class, intertwining jokes with serious reflections on his personal journey and broader life lessons. He drew from his experiences in improv comedy to emphasize the importance of saying “yes” to life’s opportunities and adapting to change with optimism and creativity.

• Colbert stressed the importance of embracing change and uncertainty. He shared how his career in improvisational comedy taught him the value of adapting to unexpected situations and turning them into opportunities.
• He urged graduates to say “yes” as much as possible, drawing parallels between improv scenes, where progress is made by building on each other’s ideas, and life, where saying “yes” opens up new possibilities.
• Reflecting his role as a political satirist, Colbert encouraged the graduates to stay informed about the world and actively engage with issues that matter. He emphasized the importance of understanding one’s role in a larger community and participating in civic life.
• Colbert highlighted how humor can be a powerful tool for resilience. He discussed how finding the humorous side of challenging situations can provide relief and a way to cope with difficulties.
• He advised the graduates to find what they love doing and pursue it with passion. Colbert shared his own experiences of following his passion for comedy, despite initial uncertainties and challenges.
• Colbert also touched on the impact of technology and social media on contemporary life, urging the graduates to use these tools wisely but not let them replace genuine human interactions.
• Finally, Colbert commended the value of hard work and perseverance. He reminded the graduates that while luck plays a role in success, consistent effort and dedication are crucial to achieving long-term goals.

18. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Wellesley College, 2015

Summary: Adichie’s speech focused on the importance of feminism, the complexities of gender equality, and the broader social issues affecting women worldwide. She shared personal anecdotes and reflections on identity and culture, urging the graduates to think critically about their roles in the world and to strive for a deeper understanding of issues related to gender and social justice.

• Adichie highlighted the importance of feminism, defining it in simple terms as the belief in the social, economic, and political equality of the sexes. She encouraged the graduates to embrace and advocate for feminism and to challenge the structures that propagate gender inequality.
• She discussed the need for cultural awareness and self-reflection. Adichie urged the audience to understand their own positions within various cultural contexts and to critique societal norms and expectations that reinforce inequality.
• Drawing on her background as a writer, Adichie emphasized the power of storytelling in shaping views and changing opinions. She encouraged the graduates to tell their own stories and to seek out and listen to the stories of others, especially those who are marginalized.
• Adichie advised the graduates to be willing to challenge the status quo and to take risks for the sake of building a more just society. She emphasized that real change often comes from not simply doing what is expected, but from questioning and revising established norms.
• She spoke about personal responsibility and the importance of making deliberate choices that reflect one’s values and aspirations. Adichie encouraged the graduates to think critically about the impact of their actions and to live intentionally.
• Adichie also touched on the need for empathy and the willingness to understand perspectives different from one’s own. She stressed that true progress in issues of gender and equality requires a deep empathy for the experiences and challenges of others.
• Finally, Adichie called on the graduates to be agents of change in whatever capacity they can. She urged them to apply their education and privilege towards advocating for and implementing changes that advance equality and justice.

19. Robert De Niro, Tisch School of the Arts, 2015

Summary: De Niro opened his speech with a humorous but blunt statement: “You made it — and you’re f*cked,” highlighting the uncertain and competitive nature of the arts. He used this direct approach to both amuse and prepare the graduates for the real world. The speech was a realistic portrayal of the difficulties artists face, but it also conveyed encouragement and the value of persistence.

• De Niro didn’t sugarcoat the challenges of pursuing a career in the arts. He pointed out that unlike more conventional career paths, the arts require navigating a landscape filled with intense competition and frequent rejection.
• Despite the harsh realities, De Niro affirmed the value of an arts education. He emphasized that the skills and experiences gained at Tisch would serve graduates not only in artistic pursuits but in life in general.
• He stressed that passion and commitment are essential for success in the arts. De Niro encouraged graduates to stay true to their art, regardless of the obstacles they might face.
• Reflecting on his own experiences, De Niro spoke about resilience and the necessity of adapting to overcome setbacks. He shared that setbacks and failures could be profound learning experiences.
• He advised the graduates to embrace the journey of their careers, including the highs and lows. De Niro highlighted the importance of enjoying the process and finding satisfaction in the work itself, rather than just the outcomes.
• De Niro assured the graduates of the support they would always have from their community at Tisch. He reminded them that they were not alone in their journeys and that their peers and faculty would continue to be a source of strength and inspiration.

20. NYU’s 2022 Commencement Speaker Taylor Swift

Summary: Swift’s address celebrated the graduates’ achievements and resilience, particularly noting the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. She shared lessons from her own career, emphasizing the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness, handling criticism, and the value of making mistakes. Her speech was both an encouragement to the young graduates and a reflection on the universal challenges and triumphs that define personal growth and success.

• Taylor stressed the importance of embracing one’s quirks and imperfections, suggesting that what makes each person different is what makes them brilliantly themselves. She encouraged the graduates to accept both their strengths and vulnerabilities.
• Drawing from her own experiences in the spotlight, Swift discussed handling criticism constructively. She advised the graduates to differentiate between feedback that is helpful and criticism that is merely noise.
• She emphasized the value of resilience and the lessons learned from making mistakes. Swift shared how each setback has been a pivotal part of her growth and urged the audience to not fear failure but to learn from it.
• Swift highlighted the importance of passion in pursuing one’s goals. She reminded the graduates that hard work is essential, and that pursuing what one loves requires both dedication and resilience.
• She spoke about the importance of self-acceptance and continuously working on oneself. Swift encouraged the graduates to keep evolving and to embrace change as a constant.
• Taylor acknowledged the significant achievement of graduating, especially after the students navigated the complexities of completing their degrees during a global pandemic. She celebrated their hard work and perseverance.

How to Write a Commencement Speech

1. acknowledge notable people.

Start by acknowledging notable people such as top university officials, local politicians and maybe even the student class president. However, the downside to this is it can become a missed opportunity to mention someone.

According to Daniel Benaim, a professor from New York University and also a speechwriter for former Vice President Joe Biden and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, you need to find a way to make your acknowledgement personal. “If you know people, don’t give them a compliment anyone could find on a Hallmark card. If you can, say something specific and uniquely true about them. If you’re not sure, start Googling,” says Benaim.

2. Congratulate the students

Congratulate the students on their achievements. They deserve a decent acknowledgment of the fruits of their hard work. Recognize the fact that because they worked extraordinarily hard, they are now able to graduate and harbor the fruits of their labor.

In case you don’t have a personal connection with the school, it’s okay. “Researching (students’) experience is a sign of respect, and when someone outside their community knows their favorite bars and inside jokes, that can be an easy source of humor and a way to connect,” Benaim said.

At the same time, congratulate the parents of the graduates. They, too, have worked really hard in order to support and encourage their children to finish their studies.

3. Share some wisdom

Wise words you’re about to share will either greatly impact the students or they forget it right after you share them. You can share some wisdom through personal stories of success and defeat. Share something the students can relate to when they venture out there in the real world, how you found hope amidst the adversities and how you came up victorious or how you handled loss. Give them something to remember through your experiences. Let them live through those moments with you in just a short span of time, give them something remarkable.

4. Leave them with a challenge

Lastly, you challenge the students do something specific. Challenge them to something they can be proud but remind them that it is okay to take baby steps– small steps that can still make a difference. This can also be something you wish you’d known before when you were in their shoes.

Commencement Speech Format

1. introduction.

Greeting and Acknowledgments

Good morning, graduates, faculty, families, and friends. It is an honor to be here today to celebrate this significant milestone with all of you. I would like to acknowledge President Smith, the esteemed board members, and our distinguished guests for their presence today.

Personal Introduction

For those who don’t know me, my name is Dr. John Doe. As an alumnus of this institution and a lifelong advocate for education, I feel a deep connection to today’s ceremony and the incredible journey you’ve all undertaken.

2. Opening Remarks

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” These words by Winston Churchill resonate deeply today as we gather to celebrate your achievements and look forward to your bright futures.

Today, we are here to honor your hard work, celebrate your achievements, and prepare you for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Inspiration

During my time at this university, I faced many challenges, from rigorous exams to personal setbacks. One story that stands out is when I failed my first major exam. It was a humbling experience, but it taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I hope my story inspires you to face your future with the same determination.

Celebration of Achievements

You have all worked incredibly hard to get to this point. From late-night study sessions to group projects, you have shown dedication and commitment. Today, we celebrate your success and the countless hours you’ve invested in reaching this milestone.

Reflection on the Past

Think back to your first day here. You were filled with a mix of excitement and nerves, unsure of what lay ahead. Over the years, you’ve faced challenges, made lifelong friends, and grown both academically and personally. Reflect on those moments and be proud of how far you’ve come.

Guidance for the Future

As you step into the next chapter of your life, remember that learning doesn’t stop here. Embrace new opportunities, seek out challenges, and never stop growing. One piece of advice I hold dear is to always stay curious and open-minded. This mindset will serve you well in both your personal and professional lives.

Emphasis on Values

As you move forward, remember the values that have been instilled in you: integrity, empathy, and a commitment to community service. These values will guide you and help you make a positive impact in the world.

4. Connection with the Audience

Relatable Content

I remember sitting where you are now, feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty. It’s a shared experience that binds us all together. Use this bond and the friendships you’ve formed here to support each other as you move forward.

Acknowledgment of Support Systems

None of us achieve success alone. Take a moment to thank your parents, teachers, mentors, and friends who have supported you throughout this journey. Their encouragement and support have been invaluable.

5. Vision for the Future

Encouragement

Imagine the impact you can have on the world. Whether you become leaders in your fields, innovators, or compassionate community members, you have the potential to make a significant difference. Pursue your dreams with passion and dedication.

Challenges and Opportunities

You will face challenges, but remember that each obstacle is an opportunity to grow and learn. Embrace these moments and use them to build a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.

6. Conclusion

In summary, today we celebrate your achievements, reflect on your journey, and look forward to your future. Remember the inspirational stories, the values you’ve learned, and the support systems that have helped you along the way.

Closing Remarks

As you step into the next phase of your life, carry with you the courage to pursue your dreams, the wisdom to learn from your experiences, and the strength to overcome any challenges.

Well Wishes

Congratulations, Class of 2024! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. May you find success, happiness, and fulfillment in everything you do.

High school Commencement Speech Examples

High school commencement speech examples offer inspiration and guidance for delivering memorable graduation speeches. These examples highlight key themes such as perseverance, growth, and future aspirations. They often include personal anecdotes, motivational quotes, and heartfelt messages. Reviewing these speeches can help you craft a speech that resonates with your audience, leaving a lasting impact on graduates and attendees.

• Celebrating Achievements and Embracing the Future
• The Power of Unity and Perseverance
• Gratitude and New Beginnings

College Commencement Speech Examples

College commencement speech examples provide inspiration and guidance for delivering memorable graduation speeches. These speeches often emphasize themes like resilience, opportunity, and kindness. Reviewing examples from influential speakers like Michelle Obama, Sheryl Sandberg, and David Foster Wallace can help you craft a speech that resonates with graduates and leaves a lasting impact.

• Michelle Obama at Tuskegee University, 2015
• Sheryl Sandberg at UC Berkeley, 2016
• Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie at Wellesley College, 2015

Short Commencement Speech Examples

Here top short commencement speech examples that inspire graduates with themes of change, kindness, and resilience. Perfect for leaving a lasting impact, these speeches are concise yet powerful, motivating students to embrace their future with confidence and purpose.

1. “Embrace Change and Opportunity”

Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed faculty, proud parents, and, most importantly, the remarkable graduating class of 2024, Today, we gather to celebrate your incredible achievements and the bright future that lies ahead. This moment marks both an end and a beginning—a time to reflect on the past and to embrace the future with open arms. As you step out into the world, remember that life is full of change and opportunity. Don’t fear the unknown; instead, welcome it. The world needs your energy, your passion, and your unique perspectives. Use the knowledge and skills you’ve gained here to navigate through challenges and create new paths. Stay curious, stay passionate, and never stop learning. Believe in yourself, and always strive to make a positive impact on the world around you. The future is yours to shape. Go out and make it extraordinary. Congratulations, Class of 2024! The world awaits your brilliance. Thank you.

2. “The Power of Kindness”

Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you to the faculty, parents, and the extraordinary Class of 2024. As you leave this institution and embark on your new journeys, I want to share a simple yet powerful message: kindness matters. In every interaction, every decision, choose kindness. It’s a strength that will guide you through life’s ups and downs and build bridges where there are divides. Your education has given you knowledge, but it’s your compassion that will make a difference. Carry kindness with you in all you do. Treat others with respect and empathy, and you will find success in ways you never imagined. Congratulations, graduates! Go out and make the world a better place. Thank you.

3. “The Importance of Resilience”

Hello, everyone. It’s an honor to address the resilient and brilliant Class of 2024. Life is filled with unexpected challenges and opportunities. What defines your journey is not how many times you fall, but how many times you rise. Resilience is the key to overcoming obstacles and achieving your dreams. Remember, setbacks are not failures but lessons. Each challenge you face is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser. Keep pushing forward, no matter how tough things get. Your resilience will be your greatest asset. As you step into your future, be resilient, stay hopeful, and never give up on your dreams. Believe in your ability to overcome and to thrive. Congratulations, and may you always find the strength to rise. Thank you.

More Commencement Speech Templates & Samples

Sample commencement speech.

College Commencement Speech

Standard Commencement Speech

Superintendent Commencement Speech

Student Reflection Commencement Speech

Graduation Commencement Speech

Commencement Speech for the Math Department

Why is it Called a Commencement Speech?

By definition commence means “To begin or start,” but why is the end of a school year is called commencement?

Some may think it is an official welcome to their new life after university. A gentle reminder that their professional life is beginning. But if you look at it historically, during the medieval times a student entered the university as an apprentice and emerged as commenced university master of doctor.

According to the book  The Founding of Harvard College, the initiation of apprentices in the masters of art guild were initiated by teachers during the middle ages. Candidates or apprentices having received a license to teach were ceremonially admitted the masters’ or teachers’ guild. They were then confirmed with a new title: Master of Art.

So technically, it is called a commencement because it marked the beginning of a person’s career as a master of arts at the university, meaning, the beginning of a career as a university teacher.

Therefore, we still call the end of the university years of a student a commencement because of the above mentioned reason. It is the ceremony in which degrees or diplomas are conferred upon graduating students.  Now, the speech made during the said event is called a commencement speech in honor of the students’ ceremonial admission to the professional world.

A commencement speech is commonly given by notable figures in the society. Colleges or universities usually invite politicians, experts in a specific field, important citizens and other noted speakers to be their commencement speaker. Also see  Narrative Speech Examples & PDF .

Purpose of a Commencement Speech

A commencement speech serves several key purposes, marking the end of an educational journey and the beginning of a new chapter. Here are the primary purposes of a commencement speech:

1. Inspire Graduates

A commencement speech aims to inspire graduates as they embark on their future endeavors. The speaker shares motivational stories, lessons learned, and valuable advice to encourage graduates to pursue their dreams and face challenges with confidence.

2. Celebrate Achievements

Commencement speeches celebrate the achievements of the graduates. They acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and perseverance required to reach this milestone. This celebration instills a sense of pride and accomplishment among graduates and their families.

3. Reflect on the Journey

Reflecting on the educational journey is another important purpose. The speaker often recalls significant moments, challenges overcome, and growth experiences that have shaped the graduates. This reflection helps graduates appreciate their journey and the personal and academic development they have undergone.

4. Offer Guidance

Commencement speeches provide guidance for the future. Speakers often share practical advice and wisdom that can help graduates navigate their personal and professional lives. This guidance is aimed at helping graduates make informed decisions and approach their futures with a positive mindset.

5. Emphasize Values

A key purpose of a commencement speech is to emphasize important values such as integrity, perseverance, and community. Speakers highlight these values to encourage graduates to lead lives of purpose and contribute positively to society.

6. Foster a Sense of Community

Commencement speeches foster a sense of community and belonging. They remind graduates that they are part of a larger network of alumni and that their connections with their peers and institution will continue to be valuable throughout their lives.

7. Provide Closure

Finally, commencement speeches provide closure to the educational chapter of the graduates’ lives. They mark the end of one phase and the beginning of another, helping graduates transition smoothly from student life to the next stage of their journey.

Features of a Commencement Speech

A commencement speech is a significant part of graduation ceremonies, encapsulating the essence of the occasion. Here are the key features of a commencement speech:

1. Inspirational Message

A core feature of a commencement speech is its inspirational message. The speaker often shares personal anecdotes, motivational stories, and wisdom that inspire graduates to pursue their goals with determination and optimism.

2. Celebration of Achievements

Celebrating the achievements of the graduates is essential. The speech highlights the hard work, dedication, and accomplishments of the students, acknowledging their journey and the milestones they have reached.

3. Reflection on the Past

Reflecting on the past is another important feature. The speaker reminisces about significant moments, challenges, and triumphs experienced by the graduates during their educational journey. This reflection helps graduates appreciate their growth and development.

4. Guidance for the Future

Providing guidance for the future is crucial in a commencement speech. Speakers offer practical advice, share lessons learned, and provide insights to help graduates navigate their upcoming personal and professional lives.

5. Emphasis on Values

Commencement speeches often emphasize core values such as integrity, perseverance, empathy, and community service. These values are highlighted to encourage graduates to lead meaningful and impactful lives.

6. Connection with the Audience

A strong connection with the audience is vital. The speaker engages with graduates, faculty, families, and friends, making the speech relatable and inclusive. This connection fosters a sense of unity and shared celebration.

7. Humorous Elements

Incorporating humor can make the speech more engaging and memorable. Light-hearted anecdotes, jokes, and humorous reflections help to balance the serious and celebratory tones of the speech.

8. Acknowledgment of Support Systems

Acknowledging the support systems that have helped graduates succeed is important. This includes thanking parents, teachers, mentors, and friends who have provided guidance, encouragement, and support throughout the educational journey.

9. Vision for the Future

A commencement speech often paints a vision for the future, encouraging graduates to envision their potential impact on the world. This vision inspires graduates to think ambitiously and embrace the opportunities ahead.

10. Concluding Remarks

The speech typically concludes with powerful and memorable remarks. These closing words aim to leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the key messages and inspiring graduates as they move forward.

Tips on How to Start a Commencement Speech

Starting a commencement speech effectively sets the tone for the rest of your address. Here are some tips to help you begin your speech in a memorable and engaging way:

1. Begin with a Strong Hook

• Use an inspirational or thought-provoking quote related to the theme of your speech.
• Example: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
• Share a personal story or experience that relates to the graduates’ journey.
• Example: “When I first walked onto this campus, I was filled with excitement and a bit of trepidation, much like many of you. One moment that stands out is my first exam failure, which taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance.”
• Pose a question to the audience to engage their curiosity.
• Example: “Have you ever wondered what defines success and how we measure it in our lives?”

2. Greet the Audience

• Acknowledge and greet the graduates, faculty, families, and friends.
• Example: “Good morning, graduates, faculty, families, and friends. It is an honor to stand before you today.”

3. Acknowledge the Occasion

• Recognize the significance of the day and the hard work of the graduates.
• Example: “Today, we gather to celebrate the incredible achievements of the Class of 2024, who have worked tirelessly to reach this milestone.”

4. Introduce Yourself

• Briefly introduce yourself and mention any relevant connection to the institution or graduates.
• Example: “For those who don’t know me, my name is Dr. John Doe, an alumnus of this esteemed university, and a lifelong advocate for education.”

5. Set the Tone

• Clearly state the purpose and theme of your speech.
• Example: “Today, I want to share some lessons I’ve learned along my journey and offer a few words of wisdom as you embark on the next chapter of your lives.”

6. Use Humor Wisely

• Incorporate a light-hearted joke or humorous observation to relax the audience.
• Example: “I remember sitting where you are now, thinking, ‘How many more speeches do I have to sit through before I get my diploma?’ Don’t worry, I’ll keep it brief!”

7. Express Gratitude

• Thank the institution, faculty, and support systems that have helped the graduates succeed.
• Example: “Let’s take a moment to thank the dedicated professors, supportive families, and loyal friends who have been instrumental in your journey to this day.”

Example Opening

“Good morning, graduates, faculty, families, and friends. It is an honor to stand before you today. ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,’ Nelson Mandela once said. This quote resonates deeply as we gather to celebrate the incredible achievements of the Class of 2024, who have worked tirelessly to reach this milestone. For those who don’t know me, my name is Dr. John Doe, an alumnus of this esteemed university, and a lifelong advocate for education. Today, I want to share some lessons I’ve learned along my journey and offer a few words of wisdom as you embark on the next chapter of your lives. I remember sitting where you are now, thinking, ‘How many more speeches do I have to sit through before I get my diploma?’ Don’t worry, I’ll keep it brief! Let’s take a moment to thank the dedicated professors, supportive families, and loyal friends who have been instrumental in your journey to this day.”

Tips on How to End a Commencement Speech

Ending a commencement speech effectively is crucial for leaving a lasting impression on the graduates and audience. Here are some tips to help you conclude your speech memorably:

1. Summarize Key Points

Recap Main Themes

• Briefly summarize the main points of your speech to reinforce your message.
• Example: “Today, we’ve talked about the importance of perseverance, the value of integrity, and the power of community.”

2. Offer Encouragement

Inspire Confidence

• Provide words of encouragement that inspire confidence and hope for the future.
• Example: “Believe in yourselves, embrace the challenges ahead, and know that you have the strength to overcome any obstacle.”

3. Share a Final Anecdote or Quote

Relatable Story or Inspirational Quote

• End with a personal anecdote or a powerful quote that ties together the themes of your speech.
• Example: “As you move forward, remember the words of Maya Angelou: ‘You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated.’”

4. Call to Action

Motivate Graduates to Take Action

• Encourage the graduates to apply what they have learned and make a difference in the world.
• Example: “Go out into the world and make your mark. Use your education, your passion, and your determination to create positive change.”

5. Express Well Wishes

Best Wishes for the Future

• Extend your best wishes to the graduates for their future endeavors.
• Example: “Congratulations, Class of 2024! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. May you find success, happiness, and fulfillment in everything you do.”

6. End with a Memorable Closing Statement

Powerful Closing

• Conclude with a memorable and powerful statement that resonates with the audience.
• Example: “As you leave here today, remember that the future is yours to shape. Dream big, work hard, and never stop believing in yourselves.”

Thank the Audience

• Thank the audience for their time and attention.
• Example: “Thank you for allowing me to share this special day with you. It has been an honor and a privilege.”

Example Closing

“In summary, we’ve reflected on the importance of perseverance, integrity, and community. As you move forward, remember the words of Maya Angelou: ‘You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated.’ Go out into the world and make your mark. Use your education, your passion, and your determination to create positive change. Congratulations, Class of 2024! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. May you find success, happiness, and fulfillment in everything you do. As you leave here today, remember that the future is yours to shape. Dream big, work hard, and never stop believing in yourselves.”

Commencement Speech vs. Graduation Speech

How to Give a Great Commencement Speech

• It is important that before you write and deliver your speech, you must first know your audience. The audience in the commencement ceremony is comprised of professionals and lay persons. With it’s diversity comes a large threat of offending someone with the words you say. Always get to know who are you talking to to avoid offending and becoming an awful commencement speaker.
• You should be able to fully understand what the ceremony is about and what it’s not. Your speech must be uplifting and inspiring to the students. Do not talk about yourself too much; it’s okay to use your experiences as reference for some words of wisdom but don’t overdo it. The ceremony is not about you, but it’s about the graduates and their guests.
•  Avoid controversial topics such as religion, race, creed, sexual orientation, political opinions, negative view of other professions etc. These topics and so much more can cause conflict and controversy. Different people have different opinions about these topics, so it is much better to leave it as is. Like how you normally avoid it in normal conversations, it is more likely if you don’t talk about it in your speech as well.
• Balance the serious with the humorous. Don’t overdo by sounding like a hip and happy person as forcing it can easily can become annoying. Plus, the main goal of your speech is to inspire and challenge the graduates in their new journey.
• Don’t dwell in the past and don’t get too technical. A little bit of history about the university and profession is acceptable but too much of it, as of everything else, blurs the message. If you want to share some technicalities, make sure you use terms that lay persons can understand.
•  It is distasteful and inappropriate to talk about success in terms of money or high volume practices. Such talk contradicts the virtue that success is not measured by material things but how others react and respond to a person.
• Finally, keep it short and simple. Long speeches end up being forgotten; short but insightful speeches are remembered even after the ceremony itself. Five to 10 minutes is just about the right duration for a speech. Speakers who carefully choose their words, who quickly gets to the point, and concludes enthusiastically are greatly appreciated during times like this.

A commencement speech is not meant to give a lecture or sound preachy, it is meant to sound like a normal conversation where you share a little about yourself. The main goal is to deliver a speech that can captivate the hearts of the audience. The moral of the stories you share should ultimately be how to become a better human being.

What is a commencement speech?

A commencement speech is a speech given during graduation ceremonies, aiming to inspire and motivate graduates as they embark on their next life chapter.

Who typically gives a commencement speech?

Commencement speeches are often delivered by notable figures such as successful alumni, celebrities, politicians, or other influential individuals.

What is the purpose of a commencement speech?

The purpose of a commencement speech is to celebrate graduates’ achievements, offer wisdom and advice, and inspire them for future challenges.

How long should a commencement speech be?

A commencement speech typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes, ensuring it is engaging and concise.

What are common themes in commencement speeches?

Common themes include perseverance, lifelong learning, embracing failure, pursuing passions, and making a positive impact on the world.

How should I start a commencement speech?

Conclude with a powerful message or call to action, and express best wishes for the graduates’ future endeavors.

How do you conclude a commencement speech?

Can a student give a commencement speech.

Yes, valedictorians, class presidents, or other selected students often give commencement speeches to represent their peers.

How do I write a memorable commencement speech?

Focus on authenticity, personal stories, clear structure, and a strong, inspiring message that resonates with the audience.

What should I avoid in a commencement speech?

Avoid controversial topics, overly long speeches, and clichés. Stay positive, relevant, and respectful to the graduating class.

Text prompt

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Create a Commencement Speech inspiring graduates to make a difference.

Write a Commencement Speech on navigating life's challenges post-graduation.

IOC head Thomas Bach uses speech at Paris Olympics closing ceremony to call for "culture of peace" in a war-torn world

SAINT-DENIS, France -- IOC head Thomas Bach uses speech at Paris Olympics closing ceremony to call for "culture of peace" in a war-torn world.

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IOC President’s speech – Paris 2024 Closing Ceremony

Please find below the full speech delivered by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach during the Closing Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 today, 11 August 2024.

© 2024 Getty Images

Dear President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron,

Dear President of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee, my fellow Olympian and dear friend, Tony Estanguet,

Dear Mayor of Paris, Mrs. Anne Hidalgo,

Dear Olympic friends,

Dear fellow Olympians,

Despite all the tensions in our world, you came here from all the 206 National Olympic Committees and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team, to make the City of Light shine brighter than ever before.

Your performances were amazing. You competed fiercely against each other. Every contest on the edge of perfection. Every performance sparking excitement around the world. You showed us what greatness we humans are capable of.

During all this time, you lived peacefully together under one roof in the Olympic Village. You embraced each other. You respected each other, even if your countries are divided by war and conflict. You created a culture of peace.

This inspired all of us and billions of people around the globe. Thank you for making us dream. Thank you for making us believe in a better world for everyone.

We know that the Olympic Games cannot create peace. But the Olympic Games can create a culture of peace that inspires the world. This is why I call on everyone who shares this Olympic spirit: let us live this culture of peace every single day.

These Olympic Games could only inspire the world, because our French friends have prepared the stage. And what an amazing stage it was!

Millions of people celebrating the athletes in the streets of Paris and all across France. Millions of spectators in iconic venues creating an overwhelming atmosphere. More than half of the world’s population sharing this spectacular celebration of the unity of humankind in all our diversity.

The Olympic Games Paris 2024 were a celebration of the athletes and sport at its best. The first Olympic Games delivered fully under our Olympic Agenda reforms: younger, more urban, more inclusive, more sustainable. The first ever Olympic Games with full gender parity.

These were sensational Olympic Games from start to finish – or dare I say: SEINE-sational Games.

The Olympic Games Paris 2024 were Olympic Games of a new era.

That is why I would like to thank all our French friends. First and foremost, my warmest thanks go to the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, for his tireless support. My heartfelt thanks goes to the Organising Committee, under the excellent leadership of my fellow Olympian, Tony Estanguet, for making these Games wide open. All my gratitude goes to the public authorities at all levels and to the public services, for their essential contribution.

All our thanks and recognition go to our Olympic community – the National Olympic Committees, the International Federations, our TOP partners and the Media Rights- Holders. Together, you have contributed to Olympic Games of a new era in every respect. And for this you can be proud forever.

A special thank you to all the wonderful volunteers. You will be forever in our hearts.

Dear French friends, you have fallen in love with the Olympic Games. And we have fallen in love with all of you.

Thank you Paris, thank you France!

Long live the Olympic Games! Long live France!

[Flame extinguishing]

And now, with my heart full of emotions, I have to perform one more task: I declare the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad Paris 2024 closed.

In accordance with tradition, I call upon the youth of the world to assemble four years from now in Los Angeles, United States of America, to celebrate with all of us the Games of the XXXIV Olympiad.

The International Olympic Committee is a not-for-profit, civil, non-governmental, international organisation made up of volunteers which is committed to building a better world through sport. It redistributes more than 90 per cent of its income to the wider sporting movement, which means that every day the equivalent of USD 4.2 million goes to help athletes and sports organisations at all levels around the world.

For more information, please contact the IOC Media Relations Team: Tel: +41 21 621 6000, email: [email protected] , or visit our web site at www.ioc.org .

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