TL;DR
Most commencement speeches are intentionally dull and disposable, serving as a ritual rather than delivering lasting wisdom. This tradition helps unite graduates but often results in forgettable addresses.
Most commencement speeches are intentionally dull and disposable, serving as a ritual to celebrate graduates rather than to impart lasting wisdom. Experts say this tradition emphasizes community bonding over memorable content, and many speeches are forgotten almost immediately after delivery.
According to speechwriters and university officials, commencement speeches are meant to be brief, unremarkable moments that bring communities together. The speeches are often crafted to highlight the significance of the occasion and to provide comforting sentiments, rather than profound insights. Prominent examples like Steve Jobs’ Stanford address are exceptions rather than the rule, and many speeches are designed to be forgotten.
In recent years, the role of celebrity speakers has increased, with colleges paying high fees to attract well-known figures such as Michelle Obama or Taylor Swift, sometimes prioritizing prestige over content. The process of selecting speakers has become more politicized, involving negotiations among committees, alumni, donors, and administrators. Controversies, such as speakers being booed or canceled over remarks, reflect the complex landscape of campus speech today.
Why It Matters
This tradition matters because it underscores the importance of ritual in collective celebration. While the speeches themselves are often forgettable, their purpose in uniting communities and marking transitions remains vital. The focus on routine and community bonding over content reflects broader cultural values about tradition and shared experience.
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Background
Historically, commencement speeches were given by esteemed scholars or public figures, but in the 21st century, colleges increasingly seek high-profile celebrities for the prestige and media attention. This shift has led to a focus on spectacle rather than substance, with some speeches involving large fees and promotional appearances. The ritual itself has remained largely unchanged, emphasizing community and celebration over memorable content.
“A good commencement speech is not aimed at posterity but at the moment, serving as a temporary ritual that unites a community.”
— David Murray, Professional Speechwriters Association
“Most commencement speeches are meant to be kind of boring and forgettable, just giving a homily and then moving on.”
— Jim Reische, special adviser at Williams College
“The speaker’s role is to carry out the celebratory ritual that foregrounds the graduates and their families.”
— Aaron Hoover, university speechwriter
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What Remains Unclear
It is still unclear how future trends, such as the rise of virtual ceremonies or changing campus politics, will impact the tradition of commencement speeches. The extent to which speakers will continue to be paid high fees or whether the focus will shift away from celebrity remains uncertain.
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What’s Next
Next, colleges are expected to continue refining their selection processes, possibly balancing celebrity appeal with meaningful content. Observers will watch whether the tradition persists as a ritual focused on community or evolves into a platform for impactful messages.
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Key Questions
Why are most commencement speeches so dull?
They are designed to be brief, routine, and serve as a ritual to bring the community together, rather than to deliver profound or memorable messages.
Has the role of celebrity speakers increased in recent years?
Yes, colleges increasingly invite high-profile figures to attract attention, sometimes paying large fees, with the focus shifting from content to spectacle.
Are commencement speeches still relevant today?
Yes, they serve an important social function by marking a communal transition, even if their content is often forgettable.
Will the tradition of boring speeches continue?
Most likely, as the ritual’s primary purpose is community bonding, but evolving campus politics and cultural shifts could influence future practices.
