Student Speaker Information

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Opportunity to speak during Commencement 2026

COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY STUDENT SPEAKERS

The Student Commencement Speaker honor recognizes an undergraduate and graduate student who can thoughtfully represent the voice and spirit of the graduating class. This opportunity is open to all eligible UG and GR students who wish to share a meaningful message at commencement.

This opportunity to speak in front of faculty, trustees, families and peers is truly one that comes once in a lifetime. The student speakers at Commencement have the chance to share memorable experiences and celebrate momentous achievements with fellow classmates.

Eligibility requirements for student speaker include:

  • Confirmed eligibility to graduate by the registrar's office
  • Be in good academic standing
  • No active disciplinary reports
  • Attending the May commencement ceremony

For Undergraduate students who wish to be considered for the Commencement ceremony student speaker role, please fill out the Undergraduate Speaker Application by clicking HERE. 

For Graduate students who wish to be considered for the Commencement ceremony student speaker role, please fill out the Graduate Speaker Application by clicking HERE. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE IS MARCH 30.  Late submissions, unfortunately cannot be considered. 

The application must include a resume, a written draft of the speech and a video recording of the applicant delivering the full commencement address they have written. The address should be no more than 3 to 5 minutes in length (approximately 400 to 650 words).

Once an application has been received, a selection committee made up of Faculty and Staff will review the application. From the entries received, the committee will select one undergraduate and one graduate student speaker for the ceremony. Applicants will be contacted by April 17, with a decision. The selected speakers will then be expected to work with a faculty member to edit and finalize their speech.

Speeches will be evaluated on:

  • Quality of content
  • Clarity of message/theme
  • Appeal to common experiences of North Central students
  • Length of speech within required time frame
  • Speaker's delivery being engaging including good stage presence

Important Dates:

March 30: Application deadline for Student Speakers to submit their information

April 1-10: Selection committee review of applications

April 13-17: Applicants will be contacted by the selection Committee 

April 20 - May 1: Chosen applicants will work with faculty members

May 3: Commencement Ceremony begins at 10 am

For general questions, please email commencement@noctrl.edu.