Two graduates will be selected to deliver Commencement Speeches during the Graduation Ceremony. One speaker will represent graduates from the online programs, while the other will represent graduates from the on-campus programs. Both selected speakers must attend and participate in the Ceremony in person.
Speaker Responsibilities
Graduates interested in serving as a Commencement Speaker must submit a purpose statement (see below) in their RSVP form. The selected speakers must attend the College of Medicine MS Graduate Ceremony in person.
Purpose Statement Submission
Applicants must submit a brief purpose statement (100–300 words) outlining the themes they plan to address in their speech. The purpose statement may include, but is not limited to:
- Why the applicant is interested in serving as a commencement speaker
- The key message or takeaway they wish to share with fellow graduates
- Any personal experiences or perspectives they plan to incorporate
- How their remarks will honor the significance of graduation and the accomplishments of the graduating class
Selection Criteria
The purpose statement will be used by the selection committee to determine the speakers. Speakers will be selected based on the thoughtfulness of their purpose statement, the message they hope to share, and how they reflect the experiences of the graduating class. Selected speakers will be notified at least one week prior to the Ceremony.
Speech Content
Those selected to serve as Commencement Speakers are invited to share about their time at the University of Florida, recognize the accomplishments of the graduating class, and congratulate graduates as they move forward into the next chapter of their life. Speeches should be welcoming and appropriate for an audience of graduates, faculty, staff, family members, and guests.