In the wake of heightened scrutiny from the federal government, colleges and universities across the country are facing a new challenge when it comes to selecting commencement speakers. The decision of who will deliver the keynote address at graduation ceremonies has always been a significant one, but in recent years, it has taken on added importance as institutions navigate a rapidly changing political and social landscape.
With the current administration’s focus on issues such as free speech, diversity, and inclusion on college campuses, many schools are feeling the pressure to carefully consider the message that their commencement speaker will deliver. Some institutions are opting for speakers who are known for their controversial or provocative views, while others are choosing individuals who are more likely to deliver a unifying message.
According to a recent study by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, the number of colleges and universities inviting controversial speakers to deliver commencement addresses has increased significantly in recent years. This trend has been driven in part by the desire to expose students to a wide range of viewpoints and foster a culture of open dialogue and debate on campus.
One school that has embraced this trend is the University of California, Berkeley, which made headlines last year when it invited conservative commentator Ben Shapiro to speak at its commencement ceremony. Despite facing backlash from some students and faculty members, the university stood by its decision, citing the importance of free speech and intellectual diversity on campus.
On the other end of the spectrum, schools like Harvard University have taken a different approach, opting for speakers who are more likely to deliver a unifying message to graduates. In 2018, Harvard invited Oprah Winfrey to deliver the commencement address, a choice that was widely praised for its emphasis on themes of empowerment and social justice.
The diverging approaches taken by colleges and universities in selecting commencement speakers reflect the broader debate taking place on campuses across the country about the role of free speech and intellectual diversity in higher education. While some argue that controversial speakers should be welcomed as a way to challenge students’ beliefs and foster critical thinking, others believe that institutions have a responsibility to prioritize inclusivity and create a welcoming environment for all students.
As colleges continue to grapple with these complex issues, the selection of commencement speakers is likely to remain a topic of heated debate. In an era of increasing political polarization and social unrest, the decision of who will deliver the keynote address at graduation ceremonies has never been more important.
Ultimately, the choice of commencement speaker reflects the values and priorities of each individual institution. Whether they opt for a controversial figure who will spark debate or a unifying voice that will inspire graduates, colleges and universities must carefully consider the message that they want to send to their students and the broader community.
As the 2022 graduation season approaches, all eyes will be on colleges and universities as they announce their commencement speakers. In a time of uncertainty and division, the selection of these speakers will serve as a powerful statement about the values that institutions hold dear and the kind of future that they hope to create for their graduates.