One of the most meaningful moments in the Bates Commencement ceremony is the address delivered by a senior class member. The senior speaker reflects on their Bates experience and speaks on behalf of the class. It’s a great honor and a wonderful opportunity to share your thoughts about what Bates means to you.

SENIOR SPEAKER SELECTION:

1.) Draft your speech. All speeches must be submitted by Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

2.) The Senior Speaker Committee will review all submitted speeches and select three finalists for the in-person audition that will take place in April.

3.) After the in-person auditions, the Committee will recommend a senior to the president. The president makes the final decision.

4.) The speaker who is selected will present an address that is an authentic expression of an experience or way of thinking formed by Bates.

SPEECH GUIDELINES:

Your speech should be reflective of the excellence and rigor of a Bates education.

A great speech blends the specific (a personal story) with the general or universal (world of ideas, your broader communities).

Your speech should inspire, encourage, and/or reflect on the vision and hope of the graduating class.

Your speech should be respectful of the Commencement occasion, and all the community gathered.

Your speech should be 5 to 7 minutes in length.

HOW TO SUBMIT:

To be considered, please complete the Submission Form by Wednesday, March 27, 2024.

For more information, please contact Assistant Dean Edili Lopez at elopez2@bates.edu.