We invite members of the Marshall University community to nominate candidates for commencement speaker.
What is a commencement speaker? They play a pivotal role in a university’s graduation ceremony, delivering a speech that is meant to inspire and motivate the graduating class as they transition from academic life to the broader world. This speaker is typically selected for their ability to provide meaningful, relevant insights and for their accomplishments or experiences that resonate with the values and aspirations of the university and its students. We are specifically interested in nominees who can demonstrate:
- Ability to deliver an inspiring message
- Notable contributions relevant to graduates’ futures
- Commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion values
- Significant accomplishments as a leader in their field
- Engagement with real-world issues graduates will face
- Connection to Marshall University’s mission and values
The choice of a commencement speaker is significant because their address is not just a speech but a symbolic send-off, marking the conclusion of the students’ educational journey and the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. The speaker is often a distinguished individual – such as a leader in business, politics, arts, or sciences, an alumnus of the institution, or someone who has made substantial contributions to society. The selection is intended to reflect the ethos of the institution and to serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for the graduates.
Nominations for Spring 2026 commencement must be submitted by October 1, 2025, at 11:59pm ET..
Nominations received after this date will be rolled to the next cycle.
Commencement Speaker Nomination Form
Would you like your nominee to also be considered for an honorary degree? Complete that form here.