Requirements:

  • Speaker must be a graduating student, eligible to participate in commencement and have no more than 6 credit hours to complete following the spring semester.
  • One speech per graduating student may be submitted.
  • Speech should be addressed to the University community in general, including traditional and non-traditional students, family members, guests, faculty, and staff.
  • It is suggested that the speech reflects the student’s experience as a member of the University community in a way that is relatable to all graduating students.
  • Speech must be 3-4 minutes in length (approximately 500-700 words).
  • Selection is based on quality, originality, overall message, tone, relevance, and delivery.

Selection Process:

  • Interested students will submit their written speech by the February 6th, 2026 submission deadline.
  • All submitted speeches will be reviewed by the selection committee and all candidates will be notified by February 16th about their status in the process.
  • Finalists will be invited to present their speech to the committee via Zoom during the week of February 23rd-27th.
  • The student commencement speaker will be selected and notified by March 2nd. The speaker will have individual speech coaching to practice and prepare throughout the month of April.
  • The selected speaker will need to work with the Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications to submit an appropriate headshot and biography to be included in the Commencement booklet by March 6th.
  • The final commencement speech will be delivered live, in-person at the 2026 Commencement Ceremony on May 9th, 2026.

Submission Process:

  • Submit your speech by Friday, February 6th at 11:59 PM via the Google Form (you must be logged in to your @maine.edu email to access the form)

Additional Information:

  • The student speakers are chosen by a committee made up of students, faculty, and staff.
  • If you need special services, assistance, or accommodation to participate fully in this program, contact – TTY 780-5646 or email margaret.ohare@maine.edu.
  • The selected speaker will be awarded a gift donated by the USM Alumni Association.
  • For any writing assistance, you are encouraged to contact the Learning Commons.
  • Questions? Contact Margaret O’Hare, Chair of the Student Commencement Speaker Selection Committee, via email at margaret.ohare@maine.edu.