College commencement speeches are an important tradition, where renowned figures share words of wisdom and inspiration with graduating students, as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Over the years, there have been many memorable commencement speeches that have resonated with audiences and left a lasting impact. Here are 10 great college commencement speeches that are worth revisiting:
1. Steve Jobs, Stanford University, 2005
In his iconic commencement speech, the late Apple co-founder encouraged graduates to pursue their passions and follow their intuition, even if it means taking risks and facing setbacks along the way.
2. Oprah Winfrey, Harvard University, 2013
Oprah’s powerful speech emphasized the importance of living a purposeful life and making a difference in the world by being true to oneself and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success.
3. J.K. Rowling, Harvard University, 2008
The author of the Harry Potter series shared her own experience of facing failure and rejection before achieving success, and highlighted the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.
4. Barack Obama, Howard University, 2016
In his commencement address at Howard University, the former President urged graduates to use their education and talents to make a positive impact on society, and to be agents of change in their communities.
5. Sheryl Sandberg, UC Berkeley, 2016
The Facebook COO delivered a moving speech on resilience and overcoming adversity in the wake of her husband’s sudden death, encouraging graduates to lean in to challenges and find strength in difficult times.
6. Denzel Washington, University of Pennsylvania, 2011
The Oscar-winning actor shared life lessons and advice for success, emphasizing the importance of hard work, determination, and staying true to one’s values in the face of obstacles.
7. Michelle Obama, City College of New York, 2016
The former First Lady delivered a powerful speech on the importance of education and the role it plays in shaping the future of individuals and communities, urging graduates to use their knowledge for the greater good.
8. John Legend, University of Pennsylvania, 2014
The singer-songwriter and activist spoke about the power of love and empathy in creating positive change in the world, and encouraged graduates to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions with purpose.
9. Ellen DeGeneres, Tulane University, 2009
The talk show host delivered a hilarious yet heartfelt speech on the importance of kindness, laughter, and being true to oneself, urging graduates to stay true to their values and make a positive impact on others.
10. Maya Angelou, Wake Forest University, 2005
The beloved poet and author shared words of wisdom and inspiration, encouraging graduates to be courageous, compassionate, and to always strive for excellence in all that they do.
These 10 great college commencement speeches have touched the hearts and minds of audiences with their powerful messages of resilience, purpose, and hope. As graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, these speeches serve as a reminder of the potential within each individual to make a positive impact on the world and to strive for excellence in all that they do.