South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette was the subject of student and alumni protests at South Carolina State University, which ultimately resulted in university officials uninviting her to speak at graduation.
This incident highlights a growing tension across campuses where the selection of a speaker is increasingly viewed as a political statement, a theme also seen at Utah Valley University, where author Sharon McMahon’s invitation was rescinded following her public comments regarding political figures.
Despite these controversies, the graduation stage remains a platform for a diverse array of leaders, entertainers, and icons. Here is a look at several notable speakers headlining ceremonies across the country:
Political Leaders & Public Servants
Barack Obama (University of Maryland Baltimore County): The former President returns to the commencement stage at a campus recently recognized for its high-achieving student-athletes.
Josh Stein (Elizabeth City State University): The Governor of North Carolina will address graduates at this HBCU.
Angela Alsobrooks (Coppin State University): The U.S. Senator will serve as the keynote for the Eagles.
Muriel Bowser (Howard University): The Mayor of D.C. is scheduled to speak, a choice that has drawn its own share of local discussion.
Abigail Spanberger (Virginia State University): The Governor of Virginia is set to address one of the university's ceremonies.
Icons of Entertainment & Media
Queen Latifah (North Carolina A&T State University): The legendary actress and musician is one of two speakers selected for the Aggies' celebration.
Debbie Allen (Clark Atlanta University): The Tony and Emmy Award winner visits CAU fresh off filming the "A Different World" reprise on their campus.
Hoda Kotb (Fordham University): The former TODAY show host will share words of wisdom with graduates in New York.
Delroy Lindo (Fisk University): The Academy Award nominee is the featured speaker for the historic Nashville institution.
Business & Tech Titans
Sundar Pichai (Stanford University): The CEO of Google returns to his alma mater to address the class of 2026.
Magic Johnson (Stillman College): The business mogul and NBA legend joins Stillman as they celebrate their 150th anniversary.
Fawn Weaver (Grambling State University): The founder of Uncle Nearest will inspire the latest class of Tigers.
Scholars & Social Advocates
Michael Eric Dyson (Bowie State University): The renowned professor and author will deliver the address at Maryland’s oldest HBCU.
Bryan Stevenson (Morgan State University): The founder of the Equal Justice Initiative and inspiration for the film Just Mercy will speak to graduates in Baltimore.
Walter M. Kimbrough (Edward Waters University): The former HBCU president and current UNCF executive brings his extensive experience in higher education to the EWU stage.
Athletics & Unique Perspectives
Jalen Rose (University of Michigan): The sports analyst and "Fab 5" legend returns to Ann Arbor to speak to fellow Wolverines.
Student Speakers (Tennessee State University): In a unique move, TSU is spotlighting its own students to lead the commencement narrative.
