Senior Commencement Speaker Application

If you are interested in speaking at Commencement, act now – applications are due no later than 5pm on Thursday, February 19!

Senior Speaker Process

The 2026 Commencement senior speaker will be chosen through an application and selection process open to candidates from throughout the senior class.  Here are the three steps in the process:

  • Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee chaired by the SGA Senior Class President and including graduating seniors along with faculty and staff.  The committee will select up to ten semifinalists.
  • The semifinalist names will be added to the SGA spring election ballot (March 2026) and every member of the senior class can vote for up to three (3) candidates.
  • The three finalists will be invited to share their proposed speech with the selection committee in early April.  The committee will make a recommendation to President Book, who will officially invite one student to speak at the Commencement ceremonies held Friday, May 22.

Senior Speaker Requirements

  • Must be a graduating student who has been a full-time undergraduate student at Elon for at least five (5) semesters.
  • Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
  • Must be in good standing with the university. Previous infractions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • May not be a present or former SGA executive officer or senior class officer.

Application Information

To apply to be the 2026 Commencement Senior Speaker, please complete the Application Form linked below.  You will also be asked to upload a current resume with your application. Applications are due by 5:00 pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026.  All applications must be submitted online here.

Applications are due by 5:00pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

If you have any questions, please reach out to SGA Senior Class President and chair of the Senior Speaker Selection Committee: Nic Filippa (dfillippa@elon.edu).