The student Commencement speaker is a proud tradition of Temple University. During the spring semester, a graduating senior is selected to address all graduates at the university Commencement exercises. The honor is among the highest distinctions a student can receive.

Criteria for the student Commencement speaker:

1. The student speaker is a graduating senior (August 2008, January 2009, or May 2009) with a minimum GPA of 3.00.

2. The student speaker is a representative of the graduating class who has made a constructive social and/or educational impact on the Temple University community.

3. The student speaker is well spoken and able to capture the celebration of this capstone event within the time allowed (4-5 minutes).

Interested students should read the Student Commencement Speaker Application Guidelines (PDF) for more information.

Applicants must submit the application form (PDF), a written proposed speech, a personal statement, a resume and letters of recommendation to their school or college's Academic Dean's Office by Feb. 17.

Selected applicants will be required to present their speeches to the Faculty Senate Commencement Speaker Committee.

Once chosen, the student speaker will work with the Office of the Dean of Students to rehearse the speech in preparation for Commencement.

Commencement will be held at the Liacouras Center on May 14, 2009.