Senior Commencement Speaker Application

Information for the 2027 Commencement senior speaker selection will be posted here in early 2027.

Senior Speaker Process

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

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

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

When applications open for the 2027 Commencement Senior Speaker, the application form will be linked here. Applicants will be asked to upload a current resume with their application.

For questions about the senior speaker selection process, contact the SGA Senior Class President or the Vice President of Communications (Tyler Mastrangelo, tmastrangelo@elon.edu).

Previous Years

2026 Commencement: Applications were due February 19, 2026. For information about past speakers, contact SGA.