Serving as a student speaker is an opportunity to convey a message of inspiration and encouragement, share common experiences and insights, and inspire your fellow graduates to carry the DePaul tradition out into the world. (DePaul University/Jeff Carrion)
In a little more than a month, thousands of students will cross the commencement stage at Wintrust Arena to become DePaul alumni. But only one graduating student at each commencement ceremony will step up to the microphone.
Students graduating in June have until 5 p.m. on April 22 to
submit an application to become a speaker at their commencement ceremony. This deadline was extended from Friday to Sunday.
Serving as a student speaker is an opportunity to convey a message of inspiration and encouragement, share common experiences and insights, and inspire your fellow graduates to carry the DePaul tradition out into the world.
Graduating students interested in delivering the commencement address must meet these criteria:
- Be eligible for graduation.
- Be in good academic and disciplinary standing.
- Commit to attend and participate fully in the commencement ceremony, including any rehearsals.
The address should be between three and five minutes long. Other guidelines are listed on the DePaul commencement website.
After applications close, a selection committee comprised of representatives from each college and Student Government will review entries and choose student speaker candidates to attend an in-person audition. At the audition, the candidate will present his or her draft speech before the selection committee.
Cap and Gown Ordering Deadline Extended to April 27
To give students more time to indicate their plans to attend commencement, the deadline to
order a cap and gown has been extended to Friday, April 27. The ordering deadline for Law was March 12.
If students have not already done so, they can
order online or at the DePaul Loop Bookstore or DePaul Lincoln Park Bookstore.
Prepare for Wintrust Arena's Bag Policy
Graduating students, their guests and faculty who plan to attend commencement should review Wintrust Arena's strict
bag and purse policy well in advance of commencement day. Anyone carrying a bag or purse that does not comply with the policy will not be allowed inside. In addition, bag check will not be available.