Every spring, commencement speakers share lessons, inspiration, and wisdom with graduates across the country. Recently, The Washington Post highlighted several memorable commencement speeches, and I thought I would share a few of my favorites. Even if you are long past graduation, these speeches offer insights that can inspire all of us.
Donovan Livingston – Harvard University (2016)
Harvard University called Donovan Livingston’s spoken-word commencement speech “one of the most powerful, heartfelt student speeches you will ever hear.”
Watch the speech
Shonda Rhimes – Dartmouth College (2019)
The creator and producer of Grey’s Anatomy encouraged graduates not to let fear derail their dreams and challenged the traditional advice to simply “dream big.”
Arthur Brooks – Vanderbilt University
Arthur Brooks, known for his research on happiness, spoke about what creates a meaningful and happy life: having a true sense of purpose.
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Steve Jobs – Stanford University (2005)
Steve Jobs reflected on how dropping into a calligraphy class after leaving Reed College unexpectedly shaped the future of personal computing and design. His message about connecting the dots remains timeless.
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Steve Carell – Northwestern University
Steve Carell encouraged graduates to resist cynicism, look for the best in others, practice kindness — and remember to dance.
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My all-time favorite commencement speech is by Admiral William H. McRaven. In his 2014 commencement address at the University of Texas at Austin, Admiral McRaven reminded graduates that changing the world can begin with something as simple as “making your bed.”
Watch the speech
Do you have a favorite commencement speech? If so, share it in the comment section— I’m always looking to add more to my list. Wishing you and your families a happy and meaningful Memorial Day weekend!
