Commencement Speaker Competition - May 2026

Each year, one graduating undergraduate senior is chosen to deliver a Commencement address to the graduating class, their families, friends, faculty, and staff. Being selected as the student speaker is one of the highest honors a graduate can receive and carries a great sense of pride and responsibility.

The optimal speech will capture your Stony Brook experience and express your Seawolf pride. It should speak directly to your fellow graduates and be authentic, heartfelt, and inspiring.

To be considered, you must be registered to graduate in May 2026. Speeches should be no longer than five minutes in length.

Deadline

Written speech submissions are due by 4 pm Friday, April 3, 2026, via this submission form.

Auditions

Auditions will take place on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 10 am to 1 pm, and on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm, in the Sidney Gelber Auditorium, Student Activities Center.

Your audition time on April 8th or April 13th will be scheduled once your eligibility is confirmed and your written speech has been received.

Please note: To be eligible, you must be an undergraduate senior who has completed all degree requirements for May 2026 graduation.

We look forward to hearing your story and celebrating your journey as a Seawolf!

If you have any questions, please contact Associate Dean of Students, Hedieh Yazdanseta.