Student Speaker Application

The UW-Whitewater Student Foundation, the Commencement Committee and the Office of Student Life each semester sponsor a competition for a graduating senior to speak at his or her graduation in May or December. Graduating seniors are encouraged to apply to be the Commencement Speaker before their respective graduations.

Applications are available in the Center for Student Involvement located upstairs in the University Center, Room 264. Applicants are asked to answer questions such as why they would like the honor of addressing their graduating class and to discuss their academic and personal growth while at UW-Whitewater. Additionally, previous public speaking experiance, campus/community involvement and academic achievement and honors are required.

Finalists chosen by the Selection Committee are required to make a three-minute presentation, as if presenting at Commencement. Criteria will include relevance and clarity of message and fluent delivery. Also, applicants are asked to address the role of a comprehensive college education in fostering a socially responsible, thinking individual.

Applications are available in the Center for Student Involvement located upstairs in the University Center, Room 264. Questions may be directed to Student Foundation Advisor, Mark Dorn, Alumni Center, (262) 472-1391.