On May 19, one GW graduate will address a crowd of about 25,000 gathered to celebrate the university’s Commencement in front of the Washington Monument.
It’s the opportunity of a lifetime—and all graduating students are eligible.
“Being the GW student speaker for Commencement was a truly unforgettable experience,” said alumna Noreen Kassam, who spoke at last year’s ceremony. “It was an incredible honor to give the speech on the National Mall surrounded by monuments honoring those who lived their lives in the service of others, including our namesake George Washington. I will be forever grateful for the experience!”
Competitors must submit a biography, the link to a video of a three-minute-long speech and text of the speech by March 1. Any student who graduated last fall or winter or will graduate this spring can submit an entry.
Up to 10 finalists will be asked to audition in person (or live via Skype) on April 5 before the Commencement Student Speaker Committee, a group of about a dozen faculty members, staff members, administrators and students. The committee will select a winner shortly afterward.
“The student speaker competition highlights the incredible passion and talent of our students,” said Lorraine Voles, vice president for external relations, who has served as one of the competition’s judges. “Choosing the speaker is never an easy decision because the students who participate are among the brightest lights in our graduating class.”
For additional information or questions, contact University Events at 202-994-7129 or commencement
gwu [dot] edu (commencement[at]gwu[dot]edu).