Several well-known figures from the world of entertainment and politics have been sought to deliver commencement speeches for the graduating class of 2026 at various universities across the United States. This year, graduates will receive insights and advice from prominent personalities including Hilary Duff, Hugh Jackman, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Nancy Pelosi, among others.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/celebrities-who-gave-commencement-speeches-050526-2f68048a3cc944d5a55c4f5fd8e4c742.jpg)
Hilary Duff kicked off this year’s commencement season with an address on April 29 at Northeastern University in Boston. Speaking before an audience of over 5,000 graduates at Fenway Park, the actress and singer reflected on her extensive career and shared valuable lessons. Duff emphasised the importance of self-identity, stating, “What you do might change, but who you are never has to.” She encouraged graduates to take control of their lives and decisions, using her own experiences as a guide. “You are the architect of your own happiness,” Duff noted, urging the graduates to trust their instincts and pursue their own path rather than conforming to the expectations of others.
Following Duff, Hugh Jackman addressed Ball State University on May 2 in Muncie, Indiana, in front of approximately 7,500 attendees. The Australian actor, who received an honorary doctorate during the ceremony, spoke candidly about personal failures and the importance of resilience. Jackman remarked, “A lot of the best things that have ever happened to me have been mistakes or failures,” highlighting the unpredictability of life. He encouraged graduates to seek out what brings them joy, guiding them to question what fuels their passion amidst the challenges they will face.
On the same day, Kristin Davis returned to her roots to speak at the University of Colorado Boulder. Addressing an estimated crowd of 40,000 at the 150th graduation ceremony, Davis underscored the significance of the moment. “You have formed powerful bonds through your experience here,” she reminded the graduates, encouraging them to take pride in their hard work and accomplishments as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also delivered remarks at Notre Dame de Namur University in California. Calling for the students to embrace their roles as active participants in democracy, Pelosi stated, “You must be the patriots of our time,” urging them to defend the rights and freedoms that define the nation. Her speech resonated with themes of responsibility and civic duty, reinforcing the importance of leadership in maintaining the ideals of democracy.
Colman Domingo, the acclaimed actor known for his role in “Euphoria,” received an honorary degree while speaking at Temple University on May 6. Reflecting on his journey as a journalism student in the late 1980s, Domingo expressed his gratitude for returning to his alma mater. He shared the challenges he faced while trying to balance his education and work, which ultimately led him to leave before finishing his degree. “This degree is very meaningful to me,” he stated, illustrating the importance of perseverance.
In a notable appearance, comedian Conan O’Brien is set to return to Harvard University, where he graduated in 1985, for the school’s 375th Commencement on May 28. O’Brien’s history at the prestigious institution adds weight to his anticipated address, as he is expected to inspire graduates with a mix of humour and meaningful advice. Alongside O’Brien, Sarah Jessica Parker has been chosen to speak at Northwestern University’s graduation on June 14, where she is set to honour the Class of 2026 amidst celebrations of their achievements.
Additional speakers include Debbie Allen, who will grace Clark Atlanta University’s commencement on May 18, and Eric Church, who is returning to his home state for the University of North Carolina’s graduation on May 9. Both figures bring rich experiences that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the students.
As this year’s graduation season progresses, it brings together a diverse array of voices, each enriching the milestone event with their unique perspectives. With themes of identity, perseverance, and responsibility resonating throughout these speeches, graduates are likely to find encouragement and inspiration to carry with them into their future endeavours.