Student Speaker Information

Student Speaker Application Process

Graduating students who are interested in being the student speaker at their ceremony are encouraged to complete the online Student Speaker Application Form.* 

Submission packets should include the following:

  • One-page cover letter
  • Resume
  • Brief letter of recommendation from either a full-time faculty member or academic advisor
  • Speech which includes:
    • No more than 750 words that can be read aloud in 3-5 minutes.
    • Insights into the successes and challenges you experienced while earning a college degree as an adult learner.
    • If applicable, a description of how UMass Global helped you overcome any challenges and achieve your education goals.

Student speakers are selected based on the quality of their speech, as well as the information provided in their cover letter, resume, and letter of recommendation. The student's grade point average and units completed toward degree completion are also taken into consideration. UMass Global reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to select the student speaker(s) for commencement regardless of the factors above.

Submit Application

*Note: This application form is only for students planning to participate in the 2027 Winter Commencement in Las Vegas. Students planning to participate in the 2027 Summer Commencement should check back in spring 2027 for more information on that submission timeline and form. 

0
0
0

Student Speaker Key Dates

The Student Speaker Application is now available for students participating in the 2027 Winter Commencement. The submission deadline for the upcoming 2027 Winter Commencement is Monday, November 2, 2026. Students can expect to receive a decision, whether selected or not, no later than Friday, November 13, 2026.

Summer Student Speakers

University of Massachusetts Global is will share information about our Winter Commencement student speaker closer to the ceremony. 

 

Testimonial Consent

Student speaker applicants are encouraged to agree to the Photo/Video/Audio/Testimonial Consent Agreement by checking the "Yes" box on page 1 of the nomination form.

Photo/Video/Audio/Testimonial Consent Agreement:

I hereby consent to the use by University of Massachusetts Global / UMass Global of my image, quotation, testimonial, voice or any combination thereof in (1) any video, photograph, audio tape or print/digital publication — including materials modified, enhanced, or altered using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies — and; (2) any video, photograph, audio tape or publication reproduced either in whole or in part from the video, photograph, audio tape or interview regardless of whether these materials are used for advertising, marketing, publicity or any other purpose on behalf of the university. 
 

In addition, I waive all claims to further compensation or damages based on the use of my image or voice, or both by the university. I also waive any right to inspect or approve the finished photograph, video, audio tape or publication. 


I warrant that I am at least 18 years of age and that I am competent in my own name insofar as this is concerned. I further attest that I have read this consent form and fully understand its contents.