Senior Commencement Speaker Application

We are pleased to announce an exciting change this year – the graduating senior who will speak at Commencement 2024 will be selected through an application process open to the entire graduating class. Below you will find information regarding 2024 Commencement Senior Speaker Selection, including applications, requirements, and the overall selection process.

If you are interested in speaking at Commencement, act now – applications are due no later than 5pm on Thursday, February 15!

Senior Speaker Process

The 2024 Commencement senior speaker will be chosen through an application and selection process open to candidates from throughout the senior class.  In previous years the Class President was the student speaker, but opening the process up will focus on selecting the right student and message for Commencement.  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 and a few faculty and staff.  From the applications, the committee will select up to ten semifinalists.
  • The ten semifinalist names will be added to the SGA spring election ballot (March 2024) 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 two Commencement ceremonies held Friday, May 24.

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 2024 Commencement Senior Speaker, please complete this Qualtrics Application Form. You will also be asked to upload a current resume with your application.

Applications are due by 5:00pm on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

If you have any questions, please reach out to SGA Senior Class President and chair of the Senior Speaker Selection Committee: Demetria Hall, dhall18@elon.edu