Commencement Speeches 2008

By heather on May 20, 2008

Well, it’s that time of year and the politicos and celebs are out in force, each earning their honorary degree in reading speeches written by their publicists. OK, so maybe they really do write their own speeches. Whatever. The fact is that some of them are wonderful, inspiring, and a great resource for my Speech students who are entered in the Oratorical Interpretation category.

I thought I’d start a post that chronicles some of the most awesome ones as they trickle in this graduation season, as well as present to you all some of my favorites from years gone by. I’ll add to it periodically, and if you read or hear of one that you think needs to be recognized, please send it my way.

Enjoy, and happy graduation.

Will Ferrell Commencement Day Speech at Harvard, 2003

Alan Alda Graduation Day at Connecticut College, 1980

Alan Alda at Southhampton College, 2003

Tom Hanks at Vassar College, 2005

Guy Kawasaki at Palo Alto, 1995

Barbara Kingsolver at Duke University, 2008

PJ O’Rourke, Commencement Address, 2008

Here is also a website that chronicles some of the best speeches. Enjoy.

More to come…