Fall 2026 SLSS Graduation Student Speaker
The School of Life Sciences and Sustainability (SLSS) would like to offer one student the opportunity to serve as the next student speaker for the graduation ceremony held in December.
Who is eligible?
- All graduating students in the Class of 2026 from the departments of Biology, Bioinformatics, and Environmental Studies are eligible to be the speaker.
- An approved graduation application for the intended semester must be on file for consideration.
- The candidate must be in good standing with the department and the University.
- Eligible students must possess strong public speaking skills and be able to deliver a strong message to the graduating class and invited guests.
How do I apply?
- On the submission form, you will need to provide the following:
- Personal statement of why you believe you will be the best candidate
- A rough draft of your speech
- An optional resume or CV
- Applications need to be submitted no later than the submission deadline of 11:59 p.m. on Friday, November 13th 2026.
- Submissions should be submitted via the online submission form (see submission button below).
- Please note only one submission per student is allowed, so make sure to thoroughly review all of your materials prior to submitting.
What are we looking for?
- Applicants’ auditions will be assessed on:
- Organization
- Speech should follow a logical sequence of events, including a definitive beginning, middle, and end
- Content The
- topic of the speech should be relevant to the occasion and audience
- Any information provided in the speech should be accurate and appropriate for the occasion and audience
- Presentation
- Speech delivery is smooth and poised, but with enthusiasm for the occasion
- Speaker uses a clear and audible voice, maintains adequate eye contact and open body language
- The speech should be within an appropriate time range (ideally, 3 to 5 minutes)
What is the selection process?
- Submissions will be reviewed by the advising team.
- Selected applicants will be required to audition for the opportunity with a selection committee consisting of SLSS academic advisors. More information about the audition process will be provided to selected students once the application is closed.
- Students will be notified about auditions by Nov. 16th.
- Auditions will be held on Nov. 18th.
- The official speaker will be announced by Nov. 20th.