examples of valedictorian speeches for high school

4 High School Graduation Speech Samples That Inspire

Get ready to motivate and inspire your fellow grads with our example speeches you can use as inspo to craft your own.

Kelly has more than 12 years experience as a professional writer and editor.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

You made it to your senior year! And the next step in your life is graduation. Congrats on being chosen to speak for your class on the big day. While public speaking can be a bit intimidating, we know you have what it takes to do an awesome job. All you need is a little inspo for your high school graduation speech. 

Not to worry. We have your back. So take a deep breath, check out our high school graduation speech examples and tips, and get ready to wow your classmates, faculty, and families. You've totally got this. 

Sample Speeches for High School Graduation

While you probably won't want to use these speeches exactly, they're definitely a great place to start. Use our sample graduation speeches to help inspire your own creativity. Click to download and edit them for your own use. If you have any trouble downloading, please review the troubleshooting guide .

• Graduation Mottos & Slogans to Celebrate Your Class
• 7 Senior Bio Examples to Help You Craft Your Own
• Student Council Speech Ideas & Tips to Help You Win

If you like the style or sentiment of a particular speech, think of how it applies to your own high school experience, and use that as the basis for an original speech of your own.

Sample One: How We'll Measure These Years

You're not the same group of people you were in your freshman year. And our first sample is a speech that talks about how things have changed over your high school years.

My fellow students, we only arrived here four short years ago, and now it's already time to leave. How did it all go so fast? It seems like only yesterday that we were skinny little freshmen fighting with the locks on our lockers, trying to figure out where our next class was, and looking generally clueless to all the upperclassmen. Now, we are the upperclassmen — the seniors who stand here ready to graduate and move forward in the world. Yet at this seminal moment, we can't help looking back. 

How do we measure the time we've spent in high school? In the beginning, we measured it in class periods, counting down the day to eventual freedom. As the days and weeks passed, we measured it in semesters and later in years as we moved from being those clueless freshmen to becoming sophisticated sophomores who thought they had it all figured out. By the time we reached our junior year, we were confident that we were prepared to take over for the graduating seniors, and we couldn't wait to "rule the school." 

And now here we stand. Our rule is over, and it's up to the next class to step into our shoes and take over. I know that as I look out at all of you, I will measure my time here in a much different way. I will measure it in all the friendships I've enjoyed these last four years. Some were pretty casual, and others were much closer, but I'll remember each one fondly, as I'm sure you all will, too. And when many of our high school memories begin to fade, that's how we'll ultimately measure the time we spent here, not in periods or semesters or years, but in the friendships that we made and the times we shared together. 

Congratulations my fellow graduates of the class of (Insert year). Wherever we go and whatever we do, may we always be friends when we meet again. 

Sample Two: The Future Is in Our Hands

The second example focuses more on what the future holds for a high school graduate.

We stand here today on the precipice of the future. It's not a distant reality anymore. It begins here. It begins today. 

We began high school as children, but we're leaving here as adults. We've completed a basic education that will serve as the platform we use to launch ourselves into our futures. Some of us will go on to college, and others will go straight into the workforce, but each of us will travel our own path. 

No matter where we go or what we do, there are challenges ahead of us. What I'm asking from each of you, and from myself, is to meet those challenges straight on with our heads held high and our hearts wide open. It's not enough to simply try to get by in life. That doesn't move the world forward. We must try to excel in everything we do; strive for excellence in every task, large or small. 

Although it may not be easy to see, every accomplishment we achieve is added to the world's accomplishments. Our individual successes benefit society as a whole because when we succeed, we lighten the burden on our fellow man. When we succeed, we are in a position to give rather than take. 

Imagine if every individual lived up to their own potential. Think about how amazing that would be, and how much better off the world would be. Now imagine if just half of those individuals lived up to their potential. The world would still be an awesome place. If even 1/4 of those individuals worked to make their lives successful, they could still make some amazing contributions to society. 

Well, we may not have the power to inspire the entire world to strive for success, but we do have the power to try to achieve it for ourselves. My challenge to each of you and to myself is to do all that we can to reach our full potential. If each of the (Insert number) students in this graduating class is able to do that, just imagine the effect that would have. The future is truly in our hands, so let's make the most of it. 

Sample Three: A Debt of Gratitude

Nobody's accomplishments are 100% their own—there's always someone there to provide support, inspiration, and motivation. The third sample is about giving thanks to those who have helped everyone successfully graduate from high school.

I'd like to welcome everyone to this solemn and joyous occasion. It has been a long four years, but here we are, ready to graduate. We worked hard to get to this point, but we didn't do it by ourselves. 

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the following people. To our teachers, thank you for so unselfishly sharing your time, talent, and knowledge with us. Yes, we know it was your job to do it, but what you did for us went beyond the call of duty. You took the time to explain assignments, sometimes repeatedly because we weren't paying attention. You allowed us to come to your classroom after school for extra help when you could have gone home to spend time with your family. You put in the effort to make lessons more interesting so we wouldn't just tune out. You demanded excellence from us whether or not we wanted to give it. You set the bar high and challenged us to live up to it. 

To our parents, thank you for supporting us in more ways than it's possible to count. You dragged us out of bed each morning and made sure we were fed and clothed for school. You herded us out the door to the bus stop or drove us to school yourselves. You helped us with homework, paid our class fees, and listened to our complaints. You came to our plays, attended our sporting events, and chaperoned our dances. You commiserated over our daily dramas, but you tried to give us enough space to learn how to work things out for ourselves. These are just a few of the thousands of ways you've supported us on our journey. 

To our coaches and advisors, thank you for making school about more than just classwork. Through sports, we learned how to power on through adversity and give it our best effort, win or lose. We learned the importance of discipline and good sportsmanship. Through other activities like participating in clubs, school plays, and service projects, we learned how to work closely with others to achieve a common goal, and we had a lot of fun doing it. 

To our custodial staff and lunchroom attendants, thank you for keeping our school clean and safe. You know better than anyone else what slobs we've been. You actually deserve some kind of medal. 

To our principal, vice principal, and all the office staff, thank you for keeping things running smoothly so our teachers could concentrate on us. We're better off for it. 

To our guidance counselors, thank you for listening and trying to keep us on the right track for graduation. Without your help, some of us might not be graduating today. 

As you can see, behind each graduate there must have been at least a dozen people providing support in at least a dozen ways. The best way we graduates can show our gratitude is to make the most of the opportunity we've been given and go forward into the world with the intention of making it a better place for the generations that follow us. We'll pay that debt of gratitude forward. 

Sample Four: Inspirational Moments for Life

You're getting ready to head out into the world as adults. Adulting can be hard, but you'll find all the inspiration you need inside yourself. This last sample speech is an inspirational high school graduation speech that asks each student to look back on some of the moments from high school that will inspire them forever.

While the last four years were filled with friends, classes, teachers, and work, there were also tiny inspirations hiding in plain sight. In those moments, we were too busy, too distracted, too young to notice them. As we take a retrospective look at our high school years, I hope we will all see them clearly now. 

Close your eyes and imagine, if you will, that one thing that one teacher said to you that didn’t mean much at the time, but means something now. If you can’t hear it, think harder. This is one of your inspirational moments from high school.

Now, imagine that one scary moment with that one friend inside the school walls. Think about how you both acted and how it all turned out. If you can’t see it, think harder. This is one of your inspirational moments from high school. 

Imagine, one more time, that time when you felt so proud of yourself. Think about what you accomplished and how you did it for yourself. If you can’t feel it, think harder. This is one of your inspirational moments from high school. 

The most amazing things happen in high school when we least expect them. Although we're different people with different lives, we all experience these inspirational moments that happened in high school and stay with us for life. As we look toward our future, I encourage you to take time and look for these moments. They’ll be your inspiration for life. 

Example of a Humorous Valedictorian Speech

The following video offers a great example of a graduation speech that really speaks to the graduates while being humorous, appropriate, and entertaining. If you have a natural gift for humor, a funny speech like this will be remembered long after other graduation memories have begun to fade.

Tips for Writing a Graduation Speech

Whether you're writing a speech for your homeschool graduation, as the class Valedictorian, or as a graduation thank you speech , there are a few tips for speech writing that can make your talk meaningful and memorable.

Related: Inspirational Graduation Speeches and Themes

Know Your Audience

Even though parents, faculty, and members of the community will be on hand, the focus of your speech should be your classmates. Speak to them!

Grab Their Attention

A good speech grabs the audience's attention and never lets it go. Start off with an attention-grabbing question or a humorous first line, or make a strong statement that provokes curiosity about where the speech is going. Feel free to add appropriate humor liberally. Having a theme for the speech is also helpful.

Tell Stories

Don't just read your speech. Tell your speech by interspersing emotional stories that tug at the heartstrings or inspire positive actions for the future. You might even want to include an original poem to help express your feelings.

Include Everyone

Don't just speak to the academic achievers, sports stars, or popular crowd. Your topic should be all inclusive of your graduating class.

Keep It Short, but Not Too Short

Knowing how long a high school graduation speech should be is important before you start writing. Student speeches at high school graduations are generally between five and 10 minutes long, but closer to five is ideal.

End With a Memorable Message

High school graduation speeches by students and special guests often end with a memorable and actionable sentence that encourages the audience to do something great. It's customary to end by saying, "Thank you" in your graduation speech, which you can do after your memorable one-liner.

Don't Wear Out Your Welcome

A really great commencement speech is enjoyed, not simply endured. Put some serious thought into your speech, say something meaningful, and stick to your topic so your message doesn't get lost. Above all, don't talk too long. Remember that everyone wants to receive their diplomas, shed those caps and gowns , and get on with the celebration.

High School Valedictorian Speech Examples

Finally, the day has arrived when you’ve to say bittersweet goodbyes and embark on a new adventure. Graduating from high school might seem like a whirlwind experience, but it surely leaves one with infinite memories, invaluable lessons, and strong friendships. No matter how hard it was, you did it and made it this far. So, it’s a time to celebrate and raise a toast to all the hard work, guidance, support, and love without which it was not possible at all. 

Being a valedictorian is a moment of pride in itself but it also becomes your responsibility to make this day as memorable and exciting as it already is for everyone. In order to help you craft your impactful and captivating graduation speech, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide that includes all the essential factors followed by examples that give a better idea of how these elements seamlessly come together within your speech. So, what’s holding you back? The moment is here, let’s get to work and make an everlasting impression.

How to write a high school valedictorian speech? Crucial elements to focus on

Graduation holds immense significance in a student’s life. It is a day to not only celebrate the achievements but also to reflect and embrace all those experiences when you overcome challenges, learned lessons, shared laughter, and created endless memories.

However, when it comes to addressing everyone on the stage on this day, it can be overwhelming as well as terrifying at the same time. To make sure, you nail your valedictorian speech and make this a memorable day for yourself and for everyone, check the following crucial points to keep in mind while drafting your speech:

• Address the guests: Though, it is a common point but is the important one. Before starting any speech, always address the audience. Use professional and respectful words while addressing them such as respected, worthy, esteemed, honorable, etc.
• Thank everyone: As the day of graduation marks the completion of the journey of high school, there are these important people without whom graduating was not possible. So, before talking about anything else, be thankful to them. Let them know how their valuable contributions have made a positive difference in your life.
• Express gratitude: Whether it is about challenges, lessons, or memories, be grateful for all you’ve acquired in these four years. No matter what, all these instances have played a vital role in shaping the individuals you’re today. So, express your heartfelt gratitude in a genuine and wholehearted way. You can share some instances and connect with the audience to prove your point.
• Add humor: Nothing can beat the impression created by sharing laughter in between your long speeches. You can add jokes or share any funny moment while addressing your fellow graduates. This will help you build more connection with them leaving a long-lasting impression of your speech. 
• Motivate for their future endeavors: As you’re going to take a new big step towards your career, add a few lines to inspire all students. Motivate them to take difficulties, and failures as an opportunity to learn and grow. For this, you can add any graduation motivational quote or can share any incident where you and your friends learned a significant lesson while trying to face and overcome the challenges. Try to evoke this feeling of conquering the world through your powerful words.
• Every end is the beginning of a new journey: Though graduation is a happy day, however, it does bring with it a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet feelings. As this is normal for people to feel this way, you can connect with them by acknowledging these emotions and encouraging them for what lies ahead. Inspire them that graduation is not the end but a beginning of a new chapter with lots of adventures to experience. You can also add a quote about life after high school here to motivate them for their new journey.
• Wish all luck and express excitement for a new journey: Conclude your speech by congratulating them on their achievements and extending well wishes for a new adventure. Show excitement and enthusiasm to cheer up the students and leave an unforgettable impression.

Given the above guidelines and strategies, presented below is an example of a valedictorian speech. Read on to get a better idea of how to write an effective graduation speech by ensuring that you’ve incorporated all the essential elements.

“Every time you were completely convinced you couldn’t possibly go on, you did!

And today you’re here, and way more to go.”

Worthy principal mam/sir, honored guests, teachers, parents, and my fellow graduates, A very good morning/evening to all of you. Today, as we all have gathered here to celebrate and mark the completion of our high school journey, I am grateful to be standing here as the valedictorian of graduating class of _____. It is an honor for me to represent each one of you here and express those unheard mixed emotions of gratitude, joy, nostalgia, and accomplishment.

First and foremost, I would like to pay our heartfelt gratitude to our great principal mam/sir under whose guidance and directions, we could learn and flourish. You have enriched our journey with valuable lessons that will be a guiding light in our future. 

We are thankful to our teachers and mentors without whom we could not have come this far. You all have transformed this rollercoaster ride into smooth sailing by supporting and cheering us throughout. Your dedication, hard work, knowledge, and support has shaped the individuals we are today. Thank you for believing in us every time even when we doubted ourselves.

To our pillars of strength, our parents and families, thank you for all the love and care that kept nurturing us to learn and grow. We owe this day to your endless sacrifices, constant encouragement, and unwavering hard work and support that made sure everything we need is there in place.

As we prepare to step into the next chapter, I am grateful for the challenges we’ve overcome, the friendships we’ve forged, and the memories we’ve created to cherish them for life. Whether it is late-night study sessions, helping with assignments, or cheering each other at sports events, we’ve built a bond that will remain with us for a lifetime. 

My dear fellow graduates, 

“Take pride in how far you’ve come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don’t forget to enjoy the journey”  

We all have our own passions, story, and capabilities which will lead us in our own different paths. So, remember to embrace this individuality as your own superpower and take failures as opportunities for growth. With this limitless potential in ourselves, let’s face the world with courage and determination, and give our best to make our parents, teachers, and school proud of us. 

These four years have contributed enough to prepare us for our future endeavors. Let us carry with us the values and lessons we have learned. Let us strive for excellence and knowledge and try to make a positive difference in whatever we do. 

As popularly quoted by Helen Mirren 

“You will stumble and fall, you will experience both disaster and triumph, sometimes in the same day. But it’s really important to remember that like a hangover, neither triumphs nor disasters last forever.”

At last, as we’re going to take our next step toward our future, I want to express my profound gratitude to each one of you. You all have made this journey into a beautiful and memorable dream. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead of us and shine bright making our dreams a reality. 

Thank you, everyone, and once again Congratulations class of year ______. We did it!

Don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened

Honorable Chief guest, Respected Principal mam/sir, worthy teachers, a loving family, and all my dear friends.

Today marks the most important day in all our lives. Standing here in front of you all as the valedictorian of the class of year ______, my heart is full of pride and gratitude for this incredible opportunity to address you all. 

As I reflect back on our journey, there are these irreplaceable figures without whom this would not have been possible at all. Throughout these four years, our principal mam/sir, teachers, and mentors have been the guiding light. Beyond helping us with the curriculum and equipping us with the required knowledge, you’ve constantly encouraged us to keep working hard, explore beyond the walls of the classroom, and reach our full potential. Thank you for your tireless efforts, dedication, and support due to which this journey seemed less intimidating.

If there’s anyone who knows and understands us on an emotional and personal level, then it surely has to be our parents and families. Whether it is to cheer us on the sidelines, wipe away our tears, or celebrate our achievements, we are grateful to have you by our side always. It is your love, sacrifice, and encouragement that keeps us going and today we’re here ready to take a step towards building our dreams. 

My fellow graduates, We’ve gone through a lot in these four years which has shaped the individuals we’re today. From overcoming the challenges to exploring our passions, we’ve learned valuable lessons and made memories for life. As this journey of self-discovery has taught us the power of resilience and hard work, let us embrace the challenges and failures that lie ahead of us as opportunities to learn and grow.

“It does not matter how slow you go as long as you do not stop” – Confucius

Through this time, we’ve seen each other in every highs and lows and have been there to support or help in any way possible forging great friendships for a lifetime. No matter, where you are, or what you are doing, remember that we all are unique in our own ways. We all have our own strengths, talents, and perspectives. So, let’s try to build a community where everyone is welcome and no one is judged by a pre-determined set of standards. 

In this competitive world, be kind and helpful. Let’s hold on to our values and lessons learned, and strive to make a difference. In the end, Many many congratulations class of year ____. Cheers to us and the incredible potential that lies within us. I wish you all good luck in your future endeavors. The world awaits our brilliance, creativity, and commitment to make it a better place

Wrapping up

Graduation may mark an end to the high school journey but it sets the foundation of your future endeavors. High school is the time that has helped you realize your full potential, so, on the day of graduation, reflect on all those experiences and express your gratitude to all those who have made a difference in your life by adding their valuable contributions. 

Out of all the speeches high schoolers have heard in these four years, valedictorian speech has the most impact on everyone. So, be careful while drafting it, and make sure you do not miss out on any point since this will be the last time you’ll be addressing these people. Go through the above guide and start working, after all the stage is all yours now.

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Written Samples

3 valedictorian speech samples that will impress.

As the pinnacle of academic achievement in high school or college, the valedictorian speech is a momentous opportunity for top graduates to share reflections, inspirations, and aspirations with their peers, families, and educators.

A great valedictorian speech is more than a recitation of gratitude and accomplishments; it’s a heartfelt, inspiring narrative that weaves together personal stories with universal themes of hope, resilience, and ambition.

3 Sample Valedictorian Speeches

In this article, we provide three sample valedictorian speeches crafted to captivate and inspire audiences. Each speech includes fictional details to enhance relatability and depth.

Ladies and gentlemen, honored guests, faculty, family, and my fellow graduates, today marks a pivotal moment in our lives. As we gather in the spirit of celebration and reflection, it is with immense pride and a deep sense of gratitude that I stand before you as the valedictorian of the class. Our journey to this moment has been filled with challenges and triumphs, moments of uncertainty, and periods of exhilarating discovery.

Introduction

When we embarked on this academic voyage, we were individuals from diverse backgrounds, holding a mosaic of aspirations. Today, we stand united, a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Our time at this esteemed institution has been more than just an academic endeavor; it has been a crucible, shaping us into the individuals we are today. We have been guided by an exceptional faculty, supported by devoted families, and inspired by each other’s ambitions.

The Journey

Reflecting on our journey, it’s evident that each step was a building block, a series of lessons learned, friendships forged, and dreams nurtured. We have delved into complex theories, grappled with challenging concepts, and sought to understand the intricate workings of the world around us. We have been challenged to think critically, act compassionately, and lead ethically. Our education has been an intricate blend of intellectual rigor and character development, preparing us not just for the professional realm but for the broader challenges of life.

Overcoming Challenges

Our path was not always smooth; we encountered obstacles that tested our resolve and determination. There were late nights and early mornings, times of self-doubt, and moments when the end goal seemed distant. Yet, with each challenge, we grew stronger, more resilient. We learned the value of hard work, the importance of persistence, and the satisfaction of overcoming difficulties. These experiences have left an indelible mark, shaping us into adaptable, determined individuals ready to face the future with confidence.

Moments of Triumph

Amidst these challenges were moments of sheer joy and accomplishment. The late-night study sessions that culminated in understanding a complex concept, the successful projects and presentations, the community service initiatives, and the cultural festivals—each event added color and vibrancy to our collective experience. We cheered each other’s successes and provided support through setbacks, creating a community of learners who thrive together.

As we stand on the precipice of the future, it is crucial to acknowledge those who have made this journey possible. To our esteemed faculty, your wisdom and dedication have not only educated us but also inspired us to strive for greatness. You have been our mentors, guiding us with patience and passion. To our families, your unwavering support and sacrifices have been the backbone of our success. Your belief in our dreams has been a source of constant encouragement. And to my fellow graduates, your camaraderie, and spirit have made this journey an unforgettable experience.

As we look forward, the future is an unwritten script waiting for us to make our mark. We are equipped with knowledge, skills, and a sense of purpose. The world we are entering is complex and ever-changing, but we are ready. We are the innovators, thinkers, and leaders of tomorrow. Our education has not just prepared us for a career; it has prepared us to make meaningful contributions to society. We are poised to tackle the challenges of the future, to create, to innovate, and to lead with integrity.

Call to Action

As we embark on this next chapter, let us take forward the lessons we have learned and the friendships we have formed. Let us be bold in our aspirations, ethical in our approach, and compassionate in our interactions. The world needs bright minds and kind hearts—let us be both. Let us not shy away from challenges but embrace them as opportunities for growth. Let us remain lifelong learners, forever curious and forever driven to improve ourselves and the world around us.

In closing, I am reminded of the profound journey we have shared. It has been an honor to learn, grow, and evolve alongside each of you. As we scatter across the globe, pursuing our unique paths, let us carry forward the legacy of our alma mater with pride. Let us continue to support each other, celebrate each other’s successes, and uplift each other during times of need. Today, as we close this chapter and begin anew, let us step forward with hope, determination, and the unyielding spirit of a graduate ready to make a difference. Congratulations, Class of [Year]! Our adventure is just beginning.

Esteemed faculty, proud parents, devoted friends, and, most importantly, my fellow graduates, it is an honor to speak before you on this momentous day. We gather here, cloaked in our gowns and caps, not just as a formality, but as a symbol of our dedication, our achievements, and the journey that has brought us to this pivotal moment in our lives. This day is not just a personal triumph but a collective victory for all who have supported us through this journey.

As we stand at the precipice of the future, it is natural to reflect on the past. Our journey through [School Name] has been transformative, an epic saga filled with challenges, achievements, and a constant quest for knowledge. We entered as young hopefuls, eager and perhaps a bit anxious about the path ahead. Today, we emerge as graduates, ready to embark on new adventures, armed with the education and experiences that we have gained.

The Path We’ve Walked

Our time here has been marked by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a drive to exceed expectations. We’ve spent countless hours in the library, participated in discussions that challenged our perspectives, and engaged in activities that pushed us beyond our comfort zones. Our education was never confined to the classroom; it spilled over into every aspect of our lives, teaching us about ourselves and the world we inhabit.

Celebrating Diversity and Unity

One of the most beautiful aspects of our journey has been the diversity of our class. We’ve learned from each other, blending our cultures, ideas, and dreams. We’ve created a vibrant tapestry that reflects not just who we are as individuals but also what we can accomplish together. Our differences have not divided us; instead, they have enriched our experience and given us a more profound understanding of the world.

Acknowledging Challenges and Resilience

Our path has not been devoid of obstacles. We’ve faced personal and academic challenges, moments of doubt and disappointment. Yet, here we stand, a testament to our resilience and determination. Each setback has taught us valuable lessons, forging our characters in the fires of perseverance. Our triumphs are all the sweeter for the hurdles we’ve overcome.

A Tribute to Our Pillars of Support

This journey would have been impossible without the unwavering support of those around us. To our esteemed professors, your wisdom and mentorship have illuminated our paths. You have not only been educators but also guides, challenging us to reach new heights. To our families and friends, your love and encouragement have been our anchor and our refuge. You celebrated our successes and stood by us through trials, believing in us even when we doubted ourselves.

Looking Forward

Today, as we stand ready to turn the page, we are not saying goodbye but rather stepping into a new chapter. The world awaits, ripe with challenges and opportunities. We are the architects of our destinies, equipped with a formidable arsenal of knowledge, skills, and experiences. Let us move forward with courage and optimism, ready to innovate, inspire, and contribute to a world that is ever-evolving.

As we embark on our next journey, let us pledge to carry the lessons we’ve learned into the future. Let us continue to be driven by curiosity, integrity, and a desire to contribute positively to our communities and beyond. Let us hold onto the friendships we’ve formed, the memories we’ve created, and the dreams we’ve nurtured.

In conclusion, my fellow graduates, today marks an end and a beginning. It is the end of our time at [School Name] but the beginning of a new, exciting phase of our lives. As we spread out across the globe, let us take pride in our achievements and face the future with confidence. We are the leaders, the innovators, and the dreamers of tomorrow. Congratulations to each one of you, and here’s to a future filled with promise and adventure. Well done, Class of [Year]!

Distinguished guests, beloved faculty, cherished family, friends, and my esteemed fellow graduates, as we assemble under the banner of accomplishment and anticipation, I am profoundly honored to address you as the valedictorian of this graduating class. Our collective journey has been an intricate blend of individual stories, each contributing to the beautiful mosaic that is our graduating class. Today is not just a culmination of academic rigor; it is a celebration of growth, resilience, and shared dreams.

We embarked on this academic journey as eager minds yearning to explore the vast landscape of knowledge and opportunity. We were driven by aspirations as diverse as our backgrounds, yet united by a common goal: to learn, to excel, and ultimately, to emerge as graduates ready to contribute to the world. Today, as we look back on the years that have shaped us, we also look forward with a sense of purpose and excitement.

Our Shared Odyssey

Our time at [School Name] has been an odyssey of transformation. We’ve navigated through courses that challenged our understanding, participated in discussions that sparked our curiosity, and undertaken projects that pushed our boundaries. Our education has been a holistic one, not just academically enriching but also personally transformative. We’ve laughed, debated, and sometimes even stumbled, but every step was a lesson leading us to this very day.

Embracing Our Differences

What makes our journey truly remarkable is the diversity we’ve embraced. Each of us brought unique perspectives and talents to the table, creating a rich and dynamic learning environment. We’ve learned the power of collaboration and the strength found in embracing our differences. Our varied backgrounds and viewpoints have not only enhanced our learning experience but have prepared us to be global citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.

Overcoming and Growing

Our path was not devoid of trials. We’ve all faced moments of doubt and adversity, academic challenges, and personal hurdles. Yet, each obstacle was an opportunity for growth. We’ve learned resilience, adaptability, and the undeniable power of persistence. These experiences have not weakened us; rather, they have fortified our resolve and equipped us with the grit necessary to face the complexities of life.

Heartfelt Gratitude

As we stand on the brink of a new beginning, it is essential to express our deepest gratitude. To our dedicated faculty, you have been our mentors and guides, challenging us to think critically and act compassionately. To our families and friends, your unwavering support and sacrifices have been the wind beneath our wings. Your belief in our potential has been a constant source of strength and motivation.

Vision for the Future

As we look to the horizon, the future is replete with possibilities. We are entering a world that is ever-evolving, filled with challenges but also opportunities for innovation and leadership. We are ready to apply our knowledge, embrace lifelong learning, and make a meaningful impact. Let us be agents of change, leaders in our fields, and compassionate citizens of the world.

Our Commitment

As we step into the future, let us carry the torch of [School Name] with honor and responsibility. Let us commit to using our education as a tool for positive change, to pursuing our passions with integrity, and to lifting others as we climb. Our journey does not end here; it evolves. We are the authors of the next chapter, ready to make our mark with confidence and grace.

Closing Reflections

In closing, my fellow graduates, let us savor this moment of achievement and joy. As we scatter in pursuit of our next adventures, let us hold onto the memories, friendships, and lessons that have shaped us. We are bound together by this shared chapter of our lives, and no matter where we go, we carry a piece of [School Name] with us. Congratulations, Class of [Year], for all that we have achieved and all that is yet to come. The world awaits, and we are ready!

Words of Wisdom: 10 Inspirational Graduation Speeches

• Share article

Recently, Education Week and Education Week Teacher asked readers to send us 2012 high school commencement addresses that inspired them. Below you’ll find graduation remarks delivered by a superintendent, a judge, a school board member, a corporate executive, and, of course, students. In addition to the speeches submitted by readers, Education Week Commentary Intern Ellen Wexler scoured the Internet for stirring language from other high school commencement speakers. Read on, and feel free to add your own advice for the class of 2012 in the online comments section below.

I challenge you all to take everything you’ve learned from every experience, conversation, and lesson plan with you into the real world and make the best of it. No, it’s not going to be easy, nor will success knock on your door tomorrow night, but I want for you all to continue to make PROGRESS. Whether it be in school, at work, or just becoming a better person in life, always, always, always continue to make progress.

Gavin Barner Student Greensboro College Middle College, Greensboro, N.C. May 18, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

Always remember, good ideas may come at you very rarely in life. Seize them, grab them, and act on them.

William A. Clark Manheim Central School District Superintendent Manheim Central High School, Manheim, Pa. June 8, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

First, I believe that the world is not as ugly as it sounds. There is undue pressure put upon graduating classes that they need to go forth into society and fix it completely. We are led to think that we’re being sent off into a sick and tired planet Earth, full of chaos and disaster, on the brink of destruction, and we are supposed to roll up our sleeves like an old World War II poster and clean up the mess. But while we do owe a service to the world, I believe in a brighter outlook.

The world is not ugly, or broken. It is just much older than us, and has aged accordingly. ... It is easy to be scared by the horrors of the daily news, but I believe that it is our job to seek the good of it all—the good that will always exist amidst opposition.

Jenna Donahue President, Class of 2012 Avon High School, Avon, Conn. June 15, 2012 Read the full speech.

Complexity, diversity, and pace of change will characterize the business environment of the future, and you will necessarily have to compete in that environment by embracing change. It cannot be assumed for a minute that what was done, or was relied upon yesterday, will be viable tomorrow. ...

Don’t be satisfied with answers that are correct. Instead, train yourself to always look for better ways, better answers. Don’t settle for just being a good and competent employee. Be creative. Be innovative. See the big picture. You will have a huge advantage in the new industrial world. ...

Finally, make sure you learn to communicate well. Communication is perhaps the least-emphasized skill set in most educational programs, but I guarantee you that communication will be the ultimate key to your success.

Tom Brady Chairman, Plastic Technologies Inc.; Chairman, TECHS Governance Board Toledo Early College High School, Toledo, Ohio May 25, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

I’d like to share with you just four recommendations on how to maximize the experience of college and prepare for later success in life:

• Be the first one to ask a question in class, and even more importantly, in large lecture halls. You’ll get noticed by your professors ... and, eventually, develop a relationship with your professors.
• Exercise every day.
• Take the lead to form study groups for one or more of your classes: The annual Harvard freshman study shows that students in study groups are happier and achieve higher grades than those who do all their work alone.
• Be a hero to someone. ...

Remember the words of Horace Mann in his last commencement speech in 1859: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.”

Patrick F. Bassett President, National Association of Independent Schools Fountain Valley School of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colo. June 26, 2012 Read the full speech. (PDF)

Character is not created with a single act, no matter how brilliant or bold. It is forged in the smallest of struggles, the product of a thousand, thousand strokes. Your tool for carving your character’s template lies, in the words of the poet Robert Lowell, within your “peculiar power to choose.” Ultimately, it is the choice of the fundamental over the frivolous, preferring what is true over what’s accepted, the choosing of what is right over what is easy.

Gary Brochu President, Berlin, Conn., Board of Education Berlin High School, Berlin, Conn. June 17, 2012 Read the full speech.

You’ve learned who you are and what needs to be done to build a better tomorrow. ... And it doesn’t have to be what we’ve done. Soccer players have stopped civil wars. The Innocence Project is ending wrongful imprisonment. Doctors stopped smallpox. Start an art studio, write inspiring folk music, build a soup kitchen. ... [M]ake a billion dollars and give it away. Just do something that makes you happy.

Elliott Witney School Leader, KIPP Academy KIPP Houston High School, Houston June 2, 2012 Read the full speech.

We were only in 2nd grade when the planes hit the World Trade Center, and we were only teenagers when the economy started to collapse. It’s hard to be so sure about your own future when the world doesn’t seem to know its own future.

But it is the generations that faced the most that turn out to make the biggest difference. We are one of those generations.

Will Eichhorn Co-valedictorian Perry Hall High School, Baltimore June 1, 2012 Read the full speech.

Is it really that difficult to find in ourselves the motivation and perseverance to keep fighting for a brighter future? All it takes is to believe that it is possible—that it is possible for us to achieve our goal, our dream. Our past is crucial for our future. We must use our past experiences to transform ourselves into an intellectual, responsible man or intellectual, responsible woman. ...

I believe that a person who endures unexpected challenges and hardship, yet emerges with an undefeated smile and a modest character, is a great leader. We must believe that we can be like those leaders and surpass what life gives us. Believing in ourselves is the greatest challenge. But believing in ourselves can also be our greatest accomplishment.

Fatima Salgado Student John Hancock High School, Chicago June 8, 2012 Read the full speech.

It was easier for me, nearly 50 years ago, than it is for you today, to believe in some basic and unchanging truths, to aspire to a code of conduct that was largely accepted as setting the standard for governing one’s actions, and to hold fast to traditional concepts of integrity and honesty. Fifty years ago, there was something akin to a generally accepted social compact, defining what was expected of people in their personal lives. The lines between right and wrong, between morality and immorality, between acceptable conduct and conduct that was to be condemned, were brighter and clearer and more easily drawn in 1965 than they are in 2012. ... You can accept personal responsibility for your actions and for your life. You do not need to be dependent on others to care for you, to protect you, to provide for you, and most importantly, to make decisions for you. Once you become dependent on others, you will discover that it is the caregiver, not you, who will determine not only how to satisfy your needs but, ultimately, what your needs are. You will sacrifice for perceived security your personal freedom to choose and chart your own course. You must not accept a life of dependency and mediocrity and forgo the opportunity to achieve great things by accepting the challenge of self-reliance.

Victor Ludwig Staunton, Va., Circuit Court Judge; President, Robert E. Lee High School Class of 1965 Robert E. Lee High School, Staunton, Va. June 2, 2012 Read the full speech.

Deputy Commentary Editor Mary-Ellen Phelps Deily contributed to this report. A version of this article appeared in the July 18, 2012 edition of Education Week

Sign Up for The Savvy Principal

Edweek top school jobs.

Sign Up & Sign In

Sample Highschool Graduation Speeches & Tips

Highschool graduation speeches: examples & writing tips.

High school graduation is one of the most important moments in life. And, if you were chosen to speak to your classmates at the graduation ceremony, you can make this day even more memorable for your peers and everyone present. If you have never written speeches before, worry no more. Read this article to find out:

• how to write a memorable high school graduation speech,
• how to choose a theme that resonates with your audience, and
• sample speeches to get inspired to write.

Do you need a good graduation speech but have no time to write?  The experts of SpeechPaths have written hundreds of student speeches and can prepare a great inspiring text for your graduation day. You will receive a 100% original graduation speech written according to your requirements. Plus, we offer unlimited free revisions until you are satisfied! Email us today to get a free quote and a 20% special student discount.

High school graduation speech example

Source:  https://www.sampletemplates.com/business-templates/graduation-speech-example-template.html

Why is this a good commencement speech? Firstly, this sample speech starts with a note of gratitude for being chosen to speak in front of fellow graduates, teachers, and parents. It uses a humble and appreciative tone that draws attention. 

Secondly, the speech focuses on many opportunities that every graduate has in life, encouraging those present to embark on any path they wish in life and be open to what the future holds. And finally, the speaker uses an inspirational quote by J.K. Rowling, encouraging the students to embrace failure and take risks as they open the next chapter in their lives. 

You can also use that the speech uses simple sentences and has some inspiring statements, which makes it easy to comprehend for a graduating class and guests. Below, we'll talk about how to compose your graduation speech that will impress other students and ignite emotions. 

More examples of graduation speeches 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRiV4KZBoIY

This speech taps into shared memories, inspires students to achieve great things in life after high school years, and also uses quotes by Shakespeare. It is motivating, yet the student also uses a bit of humor to make their speech engaging and interesting to listen to. Plus, they use pop culture references to make the speech more relatable to their friends and classmates. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc

Schools often invite famous people to give a commencement speech. This famous commencement speech by Steve Jobs includes some pivotal stories from his life. On this big day, he basically gives students life lessons about finding their professional passion, love, and death through engaging stories. Storytelling techniques work well in graduation speeches, so you might want to share a story or two in your speech. 

How to write a powerful high school graduation speech? 

Start with a hearty welcome and gratitude.

Begin your speech by showing appreciation for the opportunity to give a high school graduation speech. You may start with "Congratulations class" or use a different salutation. Greet everyone present, including your peers, teachers, parents, and friends, and thank everyone who helped you graduate and become who you are now. Let gratitude and humility be the key elements of your speech. 

Pick a theme for your speech

Every professional writer will tell you that a good graduation speech always has a main theme that sets the tone and defines what to include. You may choose one central theme or briefly cover two or three. The major themes for graduation speeches are: 

• overcoming obstacles in life 
• embracing failure and learning from it
• looking back to school years and shared memories
• the importance of dreaming big and taking responsibility for your future 
• the value of friends and friendship 
• setting high expectations and making a difference, etc. 

Follow the rules of writing ceremonial speeches

Writing ceremonial speeches isn't the same as composing essays. Your speech will benefit if you use such specific techniques as identification (your audience needs to feel that you consider their needs and they become a part of the speech) and magnification (emphasizing positive attributes of someone, for example, your classmates). 

Telling a story also works great - everyone loves stories. Be sure to use vivid, imaginative language, add anecdotes, metaphors, and figures of speech. Inventive, bright speeches are more memorable and spark emotions in those present. 

Look back on the journey 

You've spent many years with your classmates, and you don't know if you'll ever cross paths in the future. So, use your speech to recall shared experiences. You may tell a story about a person in your class that everyone knows, share a curious anecdote about your first day in high school, or recollect the big goal you've achieved with classmates. 

High school is not only for education, it's the time when you make friends, learn to overcome obstacles and understand what matters most in life, so share some elements of this journey with others. 

Add inspirational quotes 

Quotes by famous people work excellently on any graduation speech. A right motivational quote will inspire the audience, help convey your main message, and draw the attention of the audience. Here's an example of a quote by J.K.Rawling that you can use in your commencement speech: 

"You will never truly know yourself, or the strength of your relationships, until both have been tested by adversity. Such knowledge is a true gift, for all that it is painfully won, and it has been worth more than any qualification I ever earned."

Motivate and look ahead 

After you have recollected things from your past in your graduation speech, it's time to look at the future with confidence and a sense of anticipation. No matter what path they choose, wish other students well in the future and express hope that they will achieve their goals and turn their dreams into reality. End on a positive note, wish your classmates luck both in college and in the big world in general, and add an inspiring call to action. 

Be concise 

Even if you have a lot of things to say to graduates, teachers, and parents, an overly long speech can bore the audience. Since there are several speeches during the graduation ceremony, writing a long speech is not the best idea. Try to keep your speech under 10 minutes, and the optimal word count is 800 words. 

Edit the first draft 

After you have completed the first draft of your graduation speech, look through it multiple times to make sure it sounds engaging, delivers your point clearly, and is free from any mistakes. Ask your friends, family, or a teacher to give you feedback. For an even better result, show it to a professional speech writer who can share in-depth suggestions on content, structure, and writing style. 

Here's what to look at when revising your speech: 

• make sure that it meets the recommended word count and takes less than 10 minutes; 
• the speech should have an introduction that sets your theme and expresses gratitude, the body section that expands on your point, and an inspiring conclusion; 
• check the accuracy of all facts, details, and quotes you use in your speech; 
• make sure there is no inappropriate content, such as insults to some groups, racist jokes, or anything that can be misinterpreted; 
• check grammar, syntax, and word choice. 

Prepare visual aids 

For a truly memorable impression, consider using visual aids, such as photos or videos. You can create a slideshow using images of your class, teachers, or pictures taken at some important events (i.e. winning a contest). Use pictures of all students, and avoid including those that can embarrass someone. 

With these hands-on strategies, you will write a good graduation speech that will touch the hearts of the audience and maybe even get a standing ovation. Rehearse your speech so that you don't read it from paper. And don't be afraid to share genuine emotions, as in this big day everyone will share them and relate to your words. 

Get expert help with your high school graduation speech 

If you have too little time or simply want your graduation speech to be perfect, you can rely on our experts. At SpeechPaths, we prepare custom speeches for any occasion, including college and high school graduation. Our speechwriter will recall the experiences from your school days and use a motivational tone to inspire your audience. Contact us today to discuss the details of your speech and get a free quote! 

Dear visitor, our website has been recently updated. You can contact us if you have any concerns regarding the new version of the website. Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Your Guide To Writing The Perfect Valedictorian Speech (With Sample Speech)

Hrideep barot.

• Speech Writing

So, you have managed to achieve the feat that’s probably the dream of most high school students: you’re the valedictorian. 

Congratulations, that is amazing.

You definitely deserve a pat on your back–maybe multiple ones. 

But, while this sounds like the perfect time to sit back and relax, it’s probably not. You still have one big task left to complete: delivering your valedictorian speech. 

But don’t worry. 

You managed to seize the highest marks in your class. Compared to that, delivering this speech should be a piece of cake. And even if it’s not–if you’re someone more comfortable with books than speaking in front of other people–don’t worry. We’ve got you. 

For delivering a memorable Valedictorian speech, keep in mind a few things like incorporating humor and storytelling, having a theme, getting other students’ insight & keeping your most important point for the end of your speech.  

We’ve delved into them deeper in the following sections. 

Tips To Keep In Mind While Writing Your Valedictorian Speech

1. Talk About Things You’ve Learnt Outside The Classroom 

While classroom learning is something that’s common to most of the students in the audience–that is, all of you probably learned the same coursework–what’s different is the stuff that you learned OUTSIDE the classroom. 

Talk about your personal experiences. The valuable lessons that seemingly trivial incidents taught you, what you remember the most from time spent with friends, etc. Teach them something they haven’t learned before; something that doesn’t involve an unwieldy textbook. 

2. Make Sure To Incorporate Humor 

Don’t just step up on the stage and start talking about a bunch of motivational stuff. If you truly wish to motivate your peers and make them remember you, then you need to incorporate humor in your speech. 

That’s because humor is a universal way to connect with people & make good memories with them. Think about all the good moments in your life, and chances are, you’ll realize you were smiling in more than one of them. 

For Example: “Your families are extremely proud of you. You can’t imagine the sense of relief they are experiencing. This would be a most opportune time to ask for money.”

We can also use the Paraprosdokian technique to make our speeches funny. It’s a simple technique which means narrating a story and having a surprise twist at the end. Want to know how some of our most beloved celebrities go about using this technique (and how you can too)? Check out this (entertaining) video we made:

3. Tell Stories 

Stories are another excellent way of connecting with your peers. Especially if it’s a popular story that most people recognize or was maybe quite the rage at a time in your school–chances are, at a time like this, repeating it will work to evoke fonder memories and emotions in your audience. 

So, make sure to use stories in your speech. 

For Example: Have you ever been the new kid in school? Well, I have…

We’ve created an entire video on how your can go about narrating great stories. The narrative structures and techniques discussed here will help you craft a compelling and engaging narrative:

4. Have A Theme 

Themes are a great way to enhance the impact of your speech. That’s because they are a common point that your entire speech is organized towards anything that you say in your speech can inevitably be traced back to it. 

Pick a theme that can inspire your audience. For example: 

• Why the best years of our life are  not  behind us
• What high-school didn’t prepare you for
• Why it’s okay to fail
• Why not being the top of class is not a big deal
• Why the small picture is more important than the big picture

5. Talk To Other Students 

Your valedictorian speech is not just a cornerstone in your own high-school life, but also a testament to the life and experiences of the other students in the audience. So, why not include them in the writing of your speech?

I’m not asking you to get another student to write your speech for you. Rather, what I’m suggesting is talking to other students, and getting insight into their own thoughts, experiences & emotions. 

You can use them or the common themes you hear to structure your speech, and even include a couple of incidents or other things into your speech. This will greatly increase the impact that you make. 

Check our article 11 Engaging Ways To Interact With The Audience to make your speech a wholesome and interactive experience for the audience. 

6. Keep It Short & Simple 

Remember that your speech is a part of a larger ceremony that’s taking place and that most people in the audience are unlikely to pay attention to an hour-long speech. 

So, make sure that your speech is short and simple. Stick to the main points. A general guideline would be to have your speech be anything between 5-15 minutes. You can confirm if you have a time limit with the principal. 

7. Keep Your Most Important Point For The End 

How you end your speech is just as important as the way you begin it. That’s because while your beginning will determine whether people pay attention to your speech–or doze off–the ending will determine the takeaway that people return with. 

Your speech should be organized in such a way that it leads up to the final point that you make, which should be your most important point. 

This is going to be the line that people will most likely remember for a long time, the main takeaway from your speech. It can be a quote, the summary of a story or memory that you’ve spoken before, a few words of wisdom, or even a quote. 

For more inspiration on how to end your speech, check out our article on 50 Speech Closing Lines (& How To Create Your Own) l The Ultimate Guide 

How To Start Your Valedictorian Speech 

1. Start With An Anecdote 

As I mentioned before, stories and anecdotes are a must in any speech. And what better way to include them in your speech than have them right at the beginning? 

Stories will work to hook your audience right from the beginning and make it more likely that they will stick with you till the end. 

For Example: In Grade 11, one of my friends started the fire alarm…

2. Use A Prop 

Props are another great way to start off your speech. They are eye-catching, and if used correctly, can create an entire story for your audience. So you’re hitting two birds with one stone!

However, before using props, one thing to keep in mind is to make sure that they’re relevant to the topic at hand. Don’t just use a prop for the sake of using one. 

Examples of props:

• Your high-school yearbook
• A photograph
• A memoir from a popular school incident
• Your graduation cap
• Memorable food from cafeteria

3. Make Them Imagine 

Another great way to start off your speech is to make your audience imagine a scenario. By evoking the power of imagination, you will pique your audience’s mind and make it more likely that they will pay attention to you. 

You can make them imagine many scenarios. You could get them to picture the future, or even make them recall a particular incident from the past. 

For Example: Imagine you’re sitting in the classroom…

4. Sing A Song 

This is a different–and somewhat unconventional–way to start off your speech. Was there a song or piece of lyrics that were really popular back in high school? Maybe something that was viral with a lot of students. 

Well, now would be a great time to make them remember it. Not only will this evoke fond memories, but it might also make them join in with you, thus taking the interaction to another level. 

5. Tell A Joke 

Another great way to start off your speech is by telling a joke. As I mentioned, humor is an essential element for any speech or presentation. It can spice up a boring speech, and make a more difficult point easy to remember. 

Start off your speech with a joke. This can be done in the form of a normal punchline format, or you could mix up different elements by telling a funny story or using your prop as a joke. 

For Example: I was good at math, once they decided to mix the alphabet into it. 

For more information on how to open your speech, check out our article on 50 Speech Opening Lines (& How To Create Your Own) l The Ultimate Guide. 

How Long Should The Speech Be? 

As mentioned above, you need to remember that you’re not giving an isolated speech. Neither is the speech the only important component of the entire event. 

Rather, your speech is part of a bigger ceremony that is going to be likely many times longer than it. 

So, it’s important to make sure that you don’t dawdle on for too long. Not only will this make most of the students in the audience more impatient, but longer speeches generally tend to be less intirguing and harder to retain. 

That’s why it’s important to keep your speech short. Preferably somewhere between 5-15 minutes. 

This will give you ample time to cover your most important details, while also making sure that your fellow students and teachers don’t doze off from boredom. 

Sample Valedictorian Speech

You’re probably wondering why I’m smiling like an idiot right now–and why I have been the entire way on the stage. Well, that’s because as I prepare to deliver my final speech on this stage, I can’t stop thinking about my first time up here. When I first came to high-school, I was a shy kid whose worst fear was speaking in front of a big crowd of people. That’s because I have always been very imaginative, you see. But instead of using my imagination for writing stories as I now do, I used to use it to imagine the worst possible stories and scenarios in my head. And so when I somehow let my English teacher convince me to take part in a debate competition during my freshman year, most of my energy was focused on all the things that could go wrong during my speech rather than the speech itself. You know, like, me stumbling and falling on my face as I climbed all those big steps to the stage. Or me forgetting my speech in the middle. Or me bursting into tears from all the nerves and pressure–which is exactly what happened. Yep, ALL OF IT. Not only did I fall falt on my face the moment I stepped on the stage, but I also proceeded to tick off the other two items on the list–all within the span of two minutes. I was so embarrased that I swore to my mother I would NEVER in my life take another step inside this high-school. My mom indulged me for one day, and then sent me packing straight to school counselor’s office the next day. You’re probably wondering why I’m recounting what was probably the most embarrasing moment of my life on the best moment of my life. Well, that’s because, while at that moment it certainly felt that way, now I know that I’m not alone. Over the course of these four years, every single one of you has probably felt at least once as embarrased as I felt on that day. This speech is for all of you who’ve ever felt so humiliated that they felt like crawling under a giant rock and never showing your face to the other people sitting around you again. And yet, WE DID IT. The fact that we’re sitting in this room today is proof that we did. Despite the embarrasement or fear or regret or failure, we showed up. Maybe we didn’t show up right away, but we did pick ourselves up and got things together eventually. And in the end, that’s what matters: not when you get yourself together, but the fact that you do. As most of us in this room know from experience, being a senior is not all fun and games. Applying to a bunch of colleges, juggling classes and assignments, making sure your grades don’t slip, trying to squeeze in as many last-time high-school experiences as you can in the little time you can find between all them…well, it’s not easy. And yet we made it–all of us did. Graduation marks the close of a big chapter in our lives. It has been a chapter filled with tears and laughter, pranks and solutions, good memories and bad memories, of last-minute studying for exams taking place the next day, running behind the school bus in a seemingly impossible attempt to catch it, of attempts to stifle laughter in the middle of exams, and much much more… I can say with confidence that none of us sitting in this room today are the same person that we were on the day your story began. And all of us have witnessed each other bloom in this journey. And this is not the end–today, the doors to a new journey have been opened to us. And as we prepare to take our first step in this new journey, I’d like to thank each and every single one of the people who have helped us pass the previous one. I would like to thank our principal, all of our teachers and staff, our parents, and each and every single one of you sitting in this room today. Thank you. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been a small part of our journey or a big one, it doesn’t matter whether you’ve been in every single chapter of this book or only a paragraph–it wouldn’t have been the same without you. And I would like you to thank yourself as well. Thank yourself for having the courage to stand up after you fall, and to have the strength to show up day after day. Thank yourself for showing up despite the terrible food–if you can call it that–served in the cafeteria every single day. Give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it.

Valedictorian Speech Examples

1. the king’s academy class of 2019.

Takeaway: This speech is a great example of how you can structure your entire valedictorian speech around a central theme to make it more memorable and intriguing. You can use it to select & organize your own speech.

2. La Plata High School Class of 2015

Takeaway: This speech is a great example of how you can effectively incorporate humor into your own speech. Use it to structure the flow of humor in your speech and to understand how to use humor without making it seem too forced.

3. West Hall High School Class Of 2010

Takeaway: This is an excellent speech to figure out how you can creatively use props in your own speech to make it a more interactive, visually appealing & memorable experience for your audience.

To conclude, writing a memorable Valedictorian speech isn’t as daunting of a task as it sounds. For delivering a memorable Valedictorian speech, keep in mind a few things like incorporating humor and storytelling, having a theme, getting other students’ insight & keeping your most important point for the end of your speech.  

Enroll in our transformative 1:1 Coaching Program

Schedule a call with our expert communication coach to know if this program would be the right fit for you

Crisis Leadership 101: Cultivating Empathy While Exercising Authority 

Lost Voice? Here’s How to Recover Sore Throat and Speak Again

7 Keys to Emcee Like a Pro: Unlock Your Hosting Potential

• [email protected]
• +91 98203 57888

Get our latest tips and tricks in your inbox always

Copyright © 2023 Frantically Speaking All rights reserved

4 Tips To Write The Best Valedictorian Speech (With Samples!)

You have a special honor to reflect on the past and inspire your classmates. Use our tips and templates to craft a perfectly memorable speech.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter

Congratulations on being Valedictorian! 

You made it through the last 4 years, so believe us when we say writing a valedictorian speech doesn’t have to be complicated. Use our templates to write the perfect speech, and don’t miss our cheat sheet of inspirational quotes you can use at the bottom of the article.

Valedictorian Speech FAQ

What is a valedictorian speech?

A valedictorian speech is a graduation speech usually given by the student or students at the top of the graduating class. It is a farewell address to the other students in the graduating class to remember what has been accomplished and give inspiration for the future. 

How long should a valedictorian speech be?

A valedictorian speech should be from 5 to 10 minutes long but also check with your school administrators to find out what length they expect. Shorter is usually better. 

What are some features of valedictorian speech?

A valedictorian speech should include highlights, lessons learned, people who deserve thanks, and remembrance of anyone who may have died. Wrap up your speech with something motivational. 

What should I talk about in a valedictorian speech?

In your valedictorian speech, talk about the shared experiences of your class. Include any significant events and teachers who made a big impact, and include funny stories. Make sure to talk about the past and look forward to the future. See our templates below for more ideas.

How do I end a valedictorian speech?

To end a valedictorian speech, conclude with a final story or a statement that wraps up all your thoughts. End on a high note; remember that your final thoughts are what will stick the longest with your audience. 

How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Step 1: ask around .

What memories will you take with you after you leave high school or college? 

Ask other students what their defining memories are, what they learned, and what their hopes are for the future. Remember, this speech is for all of you, so take the time to ask others to share their experiences. 

Ask Your Fellow Students These Questions: 

• What was the funniest moment for our class?
• What was a recurring joke from the last few years?
• What will our class be known for? 
• Was there a dramatic event on campus that impacted you?
• What dramatic event in the world impacted you the most? 
• What awards or accomplishments did our teams, clubs, or individuals receive? 
• Who is your favorite teacher? What are they known for? 
• Describe the last 4 years at our high school/college/university using 1 word. 

Step 2: Check for Themes

Once you’ve talked to others in your graduating class, look for any recurring themes. Write these down, and then think about world and school events that fit in with that theme. Tap into the nostalgia factor as you prepare to say goodbye to your school and classmates. 

Example Themes:

• Learning from mistakes
• Failure as an opportunity for growth
• Tenacity in the face of adversity
• Learning how to treat each other with kindness
• Overcoming the loss of friends or a teacher
• Teachers and students who inspire
• Overcoming obstacles as a team
• Accomplishing unexpected success

The great thing about choosing a theme is it provides you with a focus for the speech. Use your theme to guide what you reflect on and your main point. 

For example, if your theme is a failure as an opportunity for growth, you can tell a story about your experience with failure. Give examples of how classmates or teachers encouraged you to use failure as a springboard for success. 

Or, say the theme is overcoming obstacles as a team, you can reflect on obstacles that your class may have overcome, including challenges from current events. From there, you can inspire and encourage everyone to view future barriers in light of obstacles that have already been overcome. 

Step 3: Use This 3-Part Outline 

We know you hoped never to write another outline again. Don’t worry; you can skip the stuffy Roman numerals and break your speech into 3 sections. 

Here’s an inspiring outline that is especially suitable for a valedictorian speech:  

• Gratitude (although this isn’t present in many speeches, this is a key part of a valedictorian speech). What are you grateful for? List the funny moments you are grateful for. The teachers you are most thankful for. The parts of the school that helped you and your class the most.
• Reflect (similar to the above outline, reflecting looks at what is and what has happened). Is there an overview you can give of the last four years? What was Freshman year like? Sophomore year? Prom? Any particularly interesting homecomings you can reflect on?
• Inspire (inspire your audience in a way that directly links to what you have just reflected on.) What should they remember about the last four years that they should use in the next four years? What lessons have you learned? What can we hope for?

Step 4: Your Opening Line

The hardest part of your valedictorian speech might be the opening line. But don’t worry–we have some ideas for you in our video below!

Never Start a Presentation with…

• Anything technical! People make this big mistake when they have not done a tech check ahead of time or are feeling nervous. Never start with these openers:

Is this microphone working?

Can you hear me?

Wow, these lights are bright!

• Your nervousness. Many people think it is vulnerable to start with how nervous they are about speaking — you can mention this later, but it should not be the first thing. Why? People will then only be looking for signs of your nervousness. Don’t start with:

I’m so nervous right now!

Wow, there are so many people here.

I’m not a great public speaker.

• A lackluster or non-believable nicety. It’s great to be grateful to the person who introduced you, but it’s not a great way to include the audience. It’s ok to thank the audience for being there—but do it at the end (not as your opening line). These are all too boring:

Thanks for having me.

Thanks for that intro.

Nice to be here.

Boring! One exception here is if you can make it funny. Ken Robinson started with a nicety and then turned it into a joke. He said, ” “Good morning. How are you? It’s been great, hasn’t it? I’ve been blown away by the whole thing. I’m leaving.”

Action Step: Instead, start with a big idea, an important question, or a story, or grab one of our inspirational quotes below. These immediately capture attention. More Speech Opener Ideas here .

Step 5: Practice Like It’s Real

Practice your speech like it’s dress rehearsal:

• Grab a parent or grandparent. Ask supportive friends and family, but don’t ask anyone that makes you nervous. For now, you’re building confidence. If you don’t want to practice with other people watching, record yourself giving the speech so you can rewatch it and notice any areas you can improve. 
• Wear your graduation outfit. If you already have your cap and gown, wear that as well.
• Practice in a similar environment. For example, practice the speech in your backyard if the graduation is going to be outside. Will you be at a podium? Try to practice with a high table.

Pro Tip: If you plan to wear heels, ensure you’re comfortable walking up and down stairs. If you aren’t, practice wearing the shoes you’ve picked, or consider wearing different shoes. 

Bonus Step 6: Learn the Art of Stage Presence

Did you know that public speaking is actually a skill? Many people struggle with stage anxiety because they feel they ‘missed the memo’ on public speaking or they are lacking because they do not have a natural stage presence. Not true!

Stage presence and public speaking are skills you need to be taught—very few people have them naturally. 

Watch our video below to learn the 7 steps to overcome stage fright and beat performance anxiety:

Here are all the aspects of public speaking you can master.

• How to make a first impression with an audience
• How to have stage presence
• Powerful body language
• How to speak with a commanding voice
• What to do with your hands while speaking

For every speaking skill you add to your toolbox, the less speaking anxiety you will feel.

If you want help really diving into your presentation skills, be sure to sign-up for our course…

Master Your People Skills

• Create a Memorable Presence
• Communicate with Confidence
• Achieve Your Goals

Have a question about the presentation or People School? Email Science of People support .

Valedictorian Speech Examples

High school valedictorian speech template.

This template uses Nancy Duarte’s 4-step outline of what could be and a promise for a new norm. 

• Include funny or interesting pop culture and world events.
• Add an anecdote for humor.
• Tie it to your chosen theme.

Over the last four years, we have been devastated by the unacceptable ending of Game of Thrones, faced a global meltdown, and fought for #FreeBritney. And while most of us won’t remember the limits, differentiation, and integration needed for Calculus—sorry, Mrs. Meyers—we have learned what it means to persevere in the face of personal and global challenges. 

What Could Be: Use the theme to point to something positive you can attain as a class.

As we leave this point, we look forward to an uncertain but beautiful future. Despite the obstacles we may face, there is so much opportunity in front of us. 

What Is: Give some anecdotes of accomplishments and awards from your class. Include names and make the stories specific but concise. 

I know this because I’ve seen you overcome obstacles and accomplish big and small things. We’ve been inspired by the likes of Larry Owen, who showed great tenacity while recovering from his life-threatening football injury; the kindness of Jill Knight, our class president, who spearheaded the fundraiser to help hungry children; and so many others. When we raised money for Ukrainian refugees, we learned that each of us has the power to impact the world when we work together. 

What Could Be: Drive home the theme again.

That power doesn’t stop when we leave this school. As we make decisions about the future, we enter the world with our eyes wide open, determined to make the changes required to secure our future and care for our earth. 

What is: Transition into thanking anyone who needs to be thanked, and include anyone you are grateful for. Be specific about why you are thanking them, and have a quick anecdote if it’s relevant. 

On behalf of myself and my fellow graduates, I want to thank some of the people who have brought us here. 

Mr. Knitt taught us to think about the consequences of our actions. That’s a lesson I didn’t enjoy, but one I won’t forget. 

Mr. Owen was always there when we needed someone to talk to, and he taught us that it’s essential to listen even when we don’t know what to say. 

Ms. Jackson may have had the most challenging quizzes, but she also encouraged us to push ourselves to accomplish more than we thought possible. A big thank you to all teachers, administrators, and our families. 

Promise/New Norm: Close with any final thoughts, and include a quote if you like. 

Today, we graduate! As we go out from this place, I want to leave you with this quote from Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, the emperor of Rome. 

“Never let the future disturb you. If you have to, you will meet it with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.” 

Class of —! 

College Valedictorian Speech Template

This template uses the 3-part outline of thank, reflect, and inspire. 

Gratitude: Start your speech with something funny, like a quote or something attention-grabbing, then lead into thanking the people who have helped you get to where you are.

The comedian Lily Tomlin once said, “I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realize I should have been more specific.” 

Each of us is on the path to becoming somebody, and we are thankful for the teachers, administrators, and family who have shown us glimpses of who we can become. 

Reflect: Reflect on the past and how that interfaces with the future. Think about what you have learned from the time you spent getting your degree. 

Unexpected moments of both uncertainty and joy filled the past four years. As you look back at the late-night studying, the endless papers, and the assigned reading, you should be proud of what you have accomplished. 

You have invested in your future, and now your future is suddenly not far off but within your reach. 

It’s a bit scary, isn’t it? We’ve worked so hard to reach this moment, but it’s not the end of the journey; it is only the start of a new adventure. 

What can we take with us as we go out into the world? What lessons have we learned that will carry us forward? 

During my time at ___ University, I’ve realized that success is not my GPA, my social status, or even my potential to get a job in my career of choice. I’ve learned the people who influence the world are those who prioritize kindness and strength of character. People like Professor Scoggins, who invested in me, pushing me further than I thought possible, and like Mr. Robbins, who does maintenance on campus—he always has a kind word for anyone who stops to talk to him. 

I am more confident today, not because I hold a degree in my hands, but because of the friendships I have formed and the obstacles I have overcome. 

Inspire: Use the lessons learned from the past to inspire your fellow graduates to go into the world and embrace the future. 

Let us not pursue success and recognition as we go into the future. Instead, let us pursue kindness and generosity, believing each person to be valuable and worthy of our respect. 

I leave you with this quote from Bob Marley: “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.” 

Thank you, everyone, and congratulations! 

Get Inspired By Great Speeches

When writing your speech, think about what makes you unique. Instead of confining yourself to an expected template, use your personality and giftings to create a memorable speech.  

Everyone appreciates humor; if you can make your audience laugh, you’ll leave a lasting impression. Make the humor meaningful, like this Harvard speech. They playfully talk about how to remember the past while moving into the future.

If you can’t be funny, be passionate. This speech from a Plano Senior High School Graduation isn’t amusing but filled with passion and encouragement. In under five minutes, Hana Lone recalls some of the shared memories of the graduating class and motivates listeners to be successful and kind people. 

Bonus Speech: What Not to Do

As you prepare your speech, remember it’s not an autobiography of your accomplishments or experiences. A great valedictorian speech is about your shared experience as a class. While Rory Gilmore’s address from The Gilmore Girls made us all cry, it’s a great example of what NOT to do in real life. Not everyone has a shared interest in you and your success, so skip the self-focus and keep your speech directed to your graduating class. 

Cheat Sheet of Inspirational Quotes 

If you can’t think of anything inspiring to say, an inspirational quote never fails to be… inspiring. We’ve gathered some of the best quotes to use in your speech. 

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. —Eleanor Roosevelt, Diplomat & activist

The future depends on what we do in the present. —Mahatma Gandhi, Lawyer and activist

Stop being a prisoner of your past. Become the architect of your future. —Robin Sharma, Canadian writer

We did not come to fear the future. We came here to shape it. —Barack Obama, Former US president doing the best at this moment, puts you in the best place for the next moment. —Oprah Winfrey, Talk show host & businesswoman

Success isn’t always about ‘greatness.’ It’s about consistency. Consistent, hard work gains success. —Dwayne Johnson, Actor & businessman

We have a choice. To Live or To Exist. –Harry Styles, Singer-songwriter & actor

Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present. —Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, Roman emperor and philosopher

The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively. —Bob Marley, Singer-songwriter

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members. —Coretta Scott King, Activist & civil right leaders

You have to expect things from yourself before you can do them. —Michael Jordan, a Professional basketball player

I’ve failed over & over & over again in my life & that is why I succeed. -–Michael Jordan, a Professional basketball player

You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the farther you get. -–Michael Phelps, a Competitive swimmer

It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up. —Babe Ruth, a Professional baseball player

Now that you know how to write your speech, learn how to deliver it. Use these 15 Science-Based Public Speaking Tips to Be a Master Speaker.

Watch our video below to learn how to work a stage like a pro!

Popular Guides

How to deal with difficult people at work.

Do you have a difficult boss? Colleague? Client? Learn how to transform your difficult relationship. I’ll show you my science-based approach to building a strong, productive relationship with even the most difficult people.

Related Articles

Science of People offers over 1000+ articles on people skills and nonverbal behavior.

Get our latest insights and advice delivered to your inbox.

It’s a privilege to be in your inbox. We promise only to send the good stuff.

High School Graduation

They’ll give you something to believe in.

Sitting through a graduation ceremony is rarely one of the most fun activities ever, even if you’re among the people chilling in a robe, eager to get that diploma. But as the most inspirational high school graduation speeches prove, recent grads are breathing new life into these ceremonies . In addition to all the traditional pomp and circumstance, the best high school graduation speeches are humorous, heartfelt, and honest. Seriously, these young adults understand how to work a crowd.

And as you might expect from a group who grew up with social media, generation Z graduates are poised and confident behind the microphone, delivering speeches with ease. Seriously, it’s stunning to remember these speech-givers are only in their late teens , and possibly addressing a large crowd for the first time. And these speakers aren’t afraid to take on serious topics. In fact, many of the students use their high school graduation speeches to address issues affecting Black and BIPOC communities, LGBTQ representition, and the experiences of immigrant families. The honest emotion and care these young adults have for the wellbeing of others is inspiring. Here are some of the most popular high school graduation speeches YouTube has to offer that are sure to make you laugh and maybe cry a little, too.

Dalaney Westbroek on looking to a brighter future

The theme of Dalaney’s speech is “Per aspera ad astra,” which means “through hardships to the stars.” In her address, she reminds her fellow classmates in the class of 2021 that though they’ve seen hardships, like the Covid pandemic, their futures are bright and there are great things to come. She also gets bonus points because she does all of this beautifully, despite the wind blowing her tassel into her eyes throughout the speech – a true example of determination.

Alexandra Wayne’s reminder to take the lessons with you

Yes, there are lots of lessons taught throughout high school, but Alexandra points out that some of the most important are the ones that help you discover who you are. In her speech, she encourages her classmates to revisit these lessons as they embark on their new lives in this great big world and to always remember where they came from.

Toni Odufuye’s advice to “Give Light”

You can feel the emotion as Toni Odufuye addresses fellow classmates who graduated in 2020. “One kind word or smile can turn someone’s day around and light them up,” said Odufuye. The call to kindness is such an important message for young graduates (and really everyone).

Elizabeth Rodriguez’s heartfelt message of thanks & strength

After tearful thanks to her family and educators, Rodriguez talks openly about her prior behavioral issues and mental health struggles. “Everyone’s struggles and story may be different, but I am here to tell you all that you are loved, talented, ambitious, tenacious, and beautiful,” said Rodriguez.

Brenda Alvarez-Lagunas’ speech about motivation and migrant culture

“I am motivated by my mother’s hands that are slowly losing feeling from years of arduous work,” said Alvarez-Lagunas. The valedictorian’s moving tribute to her immigrant parents is honest and beautiful. The first in her family to graduate from high school, Alvarez-Lagunas has a unique message about the importance of education.

Chase Dahl’s viral message to embrace achievement

In an upbeat speech delivered with plenty of #references to social media, Dahl also dropped some serious words of wisdom. “The opportunity to achieve greatness is within our grasp,” said Dahl.

Jocelin Lai’s call to make history

Lai shares serious insight about privilege, the difficulty of existing as a model minority, and the crucial need to fight injustice in a stirring five-minute speech. “We are the people who are responsible for writing the next few chapters in future history books,” said Lai.

Evan Young’s delayed (but funny & moving) speech

Evan Young, valedictorian of his 2015 high school class, planned to come out as gay while giving the graduation speech. However, Young was barred from speaking by the school. Two weeks after graduation, Young presented his speech to an appreciative audience during an Out Boulder fundraiser. The topic was secrets, and Young riffed on the English books he didn’t finish and his (extremely relatable) dislike of homework. “When I was writing this speech, I was endlessly debating with myself whether I should reveal this on account of how divisive an issue this is and how gay people tend to be stereotyped and I thought if I did I should immediately apologize and beg you guys not to think any differently of me. But then I realized, I don’t have to... we can still be friends even if we profoundly disagree with each other,” said Young.

Peter Bui’s speech that keeps it at 100

“As I look into the crowd though, I see the beauty of people from a variety of cultures and nationalities are all gathered to celebrate our accomplishments,” said Bui. “Despite our differences, we’re all here now in the same place wearing the same goofy robes receiving the same diploma.” Bui delivers the speech with humor and insight, engaging the crowd with ease.

Kofi Boakye looks to the future

“It’s not over. It’s just getting started,” said Boakye. The valedictorian stresses the importance of using your own mind to make a real difference in the world.

Liam McCoy's ode to new beginnings

Ahead of us is life . Ahead of us stand all the years we have yet to live,” said McCoy. The valedictorian’s speech perfectly captures that anything-is-possible feeling of graduating high school

Evan Barber’s sincere questions about adulthood

“Guys, we’re graduating!” said Barber. “I’m not ready for this. I’m not sure how to be an adult. How do you pay taxes? I think it’s better for your interest rate to be higher, right?” But then the valedictorian goes on to suggest spending your adulthood being kind to others, which is honestly a great start.

Carl Aquino’s rubix cube speech

With over 19,008,385 views, this video of Carl Aquino’s 2010 graduation speech is a YouTube classic. By comparing high school to figuring out a Rubix cube (and solving one of the puzzles during the speech), it’s easy to see how Aquino’s speech became such a hit.

Akash Salam’s candid reflections on American life

“I struggled a lot more than you think” with fitting in, said salutatorian Akash Salam, whose family immigrated to the United States ten years before Salam presented this speech. “You have opportunities others around the world would die for.” It’s a sincere reflection on the importance of education.

Even if your own graduation was decades ago, you can’t help but be inspired by the hope these young people have and their bright visions for a better world.

This article was originally published on May 18, 2018

16 Best Graduation Speeches That Leave a Lasting Impression

By Kristi Kellogg and Noor Brara

Some of the most impactful and inspiring sentiments are shared during graduation speeches delivered by the leaders we look up to. Graduation speeches from celebrities , entrepreneurs, authors and other influential thinkers are motivational, inspiring, thought-provoking and just might make you reach for the nearest tissue. After four years of hard work, stress, and exhausting self-discovery, lucky graduates are privy to a life-changing speech to top it all off.

Here, we rounded up up 16 of the best graduation speeches of all time, including words of wisdom from Natalie Portman, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and more.

1. Steve Jobs: Stanford, 2005

"You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it."

2. Michelle Obama: Tuskegee University, 2015

"I've found that this journey has been incredibly freeing. Because no matter what happened, I had the piece of mind knowing that all of the chatter, the name-calling, the doubting...all of it was just noise. It did not define me, it didn't change who I was, and most importantly, it couldn't hold me back."

3. Natalie Portman: Harvard, 2015

"I just directed my first film. I was completely unprepared, but my own ignorance to my own limitations looked like confidence and got me into the director's chair. Once there, I had to figure it all out, and my belief that I could handle these things, contrary to all evidence of my ability to do so was half the battle. The other half was very hard work. The experience was the deepest and most meaningful one of my career."

4. Amy Poehler: Harvard University, 2011

By Kaitlyn McNab

By Kristi Kellogg

By Versha Sharma

"What I have discovered is this: You can't do it alone … Listen. Say 'yes.' Live in the moment. Make sure you play with people who have your back. Make big choices early and often."

5. Meryl Streep: Barnard College, 2010

"This is your time and it feels normal to you but really there is no normal. There's only change, and resistance to it and then more change."

6. David Foster Wallace: Kenyon College, 2005

"Twenty years after my own graduation, I have come gradually to understand that the liberal arts cliché about teaching you how to think is actually shorthand for a much deeper, more serious idea: learning how to think really means learning how to exercise some control over how and what you think. It means being conscious and aware enough to choose what you pay attention to and to choose how you construct meaning from experience. Because if you cannot exercise this kind of choice in adult life, you will be totally hosed. Think of the old cliché about quote the mind being an excellent servant but a terrible master."

7. Barack Obama: Howard University, 2016

"You have to go through life with more than just passion for change; you need a strategy. I’ll repeat that. I want you to have passion, but you have to have a strategy. Not just awareness, but action. Not just hashtags, but votes."

8. Kerry Washington: George Washington University, 2013

"You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that can write the story that you were meant to tell."

9. Conan O'Brien: Dartmouth College, 2011

"There are few things more liberating in this life than having your worst fear realized. Today I tell you that whether you fear it or not, disappointment will come. The beauty is that through disappointment you can gain clarity, and with clarity comes conviction and true originality … Work hard, be kind, and amazing things will happen."

10. J.K. Rowling: Harvard, 2008

"I stopped pretending to be anything than what I was. My greatest fear had been realized. I had an old typewriter and a big idea. Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life."

11. Oprah Winfrey: Harvard University, 2013

"Learn from every mistake because every experience, encounter, and particularly your mistakes are there to teach you and force you into being more who you are. And then figure out what is the next right move. And the key to life is to develop an internal moral, emotional G.P.S. that can tell you which way to go."

12. Joss Whedon: Wesleyan University, 2013

"You have, which is a rare thing, that ability and the responsibility to listen to the dissent in yourself, to at least give it the floor, because it is the key—not only to consciousness–but to real growth. To accept duality is to earn identity. And identity is something that you are constantly earning. It is not just who you are. It is a process that you must be active in. It's not just parroting your parents or the thoughts of your learned teachers. It is now more than ever about understanding yourself so you can become yourself."

13. George Saunders: Syracuse University, 2013

"Do all the other things, the ambitious things … Travel, get rich, get famous, innovate, lead, fall in love, make and lose fortunes, swim naked in wild jungle rivers (after first having it tested for monkey poop)—but as you do, to the extent that you can, err in the direction of kindness."

14. Nora Ephron: Wellesley College, 1996

"Be the heroine of your life, not the victim."

15. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Wellesley College, 2015

"As you graduate, as you deal with your excitement and your doubts today, I urge you to try and create the world you want to live in. Minister to the world in a way that can change it. Minister radically in a real, active, practical, get your hands dirty way."

16. Admiral William H. McRaven: University of Texas at Austin, 2014

"If you make your bed every morning you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can't do the little things right, you will never do the big things right."

• The 8 Best Movie Graduations of All Time
• The Six Products You Need to Look Great in Your Graduation Pics
• 27 Movies You Need to See Before Graduation—No Excuses

By Emma Sarran Webster

By Adaira Landry

By Sahaj Kaur Kohli

By Lisa Stardust

Crafting a Memorable Valedictorian Speech: 5 Tips and Ideas

• The Speaker Lab
• February 16, 2024

Table of Contents

Standing at the podium to deliver a valedictorian speech marks a pinnacle moment for high school graduates. While it’s an honor that speaks volumes about dedication and academic prowess, it also carries the weight of expectation.

This guide will walk you through creating a memorable valedictory address. You’ll learn how to reflect on collective milestones and incorporate those unique stories that bind your class together. We’ll explore themes like overcoming adversity and extracting life lessons from your high school years—all designed to leave everyone feeling inspired as they part ways.

Understanding the Valedictorian Speech

In academia, traditions run deep and none stands out quite like delivering that commencement speech amidst fellow graduates. The valedictorian speech is more than just a final farewell to high school. It’s a beacon of inspiration for every graduate sitting in their cap and gown. When you’re tasked with delivering this pivotal speech, remember: You’re not just speaking as an individual; you represent your entire graduating class.

Achieving this honor means you’ve scaled heights academically within your school community. But let’s face it—being top dog isn’t just about having bragging rights at family gatherings or making grandma proud. It signifies commitment beyond individual success—it speaks volumes about what one can achieve with determination.

You’re no ordinary student. As a result, you are now tasked with crafting words that will echo long after tassels have been turned at graduation ceremonies.

Significance in Academic Tradition

In academic tradition, there’s something almost sacred about commencement speeches. After all, they mark both an ending and a beginning. The best ones capture the essence of shared journeys through stories from freshman year fumbles to senior year triumphs—and everything in between.

In addition to recounting these stories of growth and camaraderie, a great valedictorian speech recounts lessons learned inside classrooms and on sports fields alike. As we at The Speaker Lab know, these narratives can shape powerful messages .

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

Crafting Your Valedictorian Speech

To strike the right chord with listeners takes careful consideration—you want each word to resonate authentically without falling into cliché traps often heard at graduations. To get you started, here are some ideas on what you might include in your graduation speech . In addition, consider these examples from The New York Times .

Reflecting on Collective Experiences and Aspirations

Weave common threads throughout your narrative—think back row shenanigans or early morning bus stop meetup. Memories like these will draw laughter and nods from classmates who’ve lived these moments too.

You can even reflect on how you’ve tackled challenges like the global pandemic and how you’ve navigated changes like online classes. Events like these have impacted you and your classmates profoundly and they’re worth reflecting on.

Beyond merely recounting achievements, your words should also echo the aspirations and spirit of your high school class. This moment serves as both reflection on what has been accomplished and anticipation for all that lies ahead, uniting everyone under common hope as they prepare to part ways into diverse futures.

Incorporating Personal Faith

Talking about personal faith can be powerful but it’s key to respect everyone’s beliefs. For those from Christian backgrounds, mentioning how God has influenced your journey might resonate deeply. It’s about balancing personal truth with inclusivity—giving thanks without assuming uniformity among fellow graduates.

Universal Values for Collective Inspiration

When delivering your valedictorian speech, try incorporating values that you and your classmates share. This could include anything from teamwork to cooperation, hard work, or perseverance. Brainstorm values that mean something to you personally and then choose themes from that list that will resonate with your classmates as well.

Highlighting Collective or Personal Accomplishments

We all know high school wasn’t just a walk in the park. Think back to freshman year, when everything was new and challenging. You had to navigate not only math class but also social dynamics and personal growth spurts.

This is where your valedictorian speech can shine by highlighting your collective accomplishments. Emphasize how you learned how to work together, transforming trials into triumphs. The moments spent tackling group projects or cheering each other on during sports events show more than your ability to overcome adversity—they showcase your school’s spirit of unity.

Alternatively (or perhaps in addition), highlight personal growth, and the ways you saw yourself and others improve, whether academically or as a person. Whichever approach you take, speaking on the triumphs of high school gives you and your classmates the chance to appreciate the challenges you overcame. By adapting, innovating, and pushing past comfort zones, you and your classmates made it to the finish line: graduation day.

Personal Touches in Your Speech

Your personal growth is another treasure trove for material. Maybe there was an “aha” moment with Mr. Smith, the math teacher who turned numbers into life lessons. Or perhaps Ms. Wilson’s U.S. history class pushed you out of your comfort zone more than once. These individual stories add a personal touch to your speech while granting recognition to teachers who made a positive impact on your high school career.

And don’t forget your fellow students. If you’ve attended your high school for awhile, chances are you’ve made some close friends. Go ahead and give a shoutout to those that made a difference in your life. As valedictorian, you want your words to resonate—to leave everyone feeling seen, understood, celebrated even as they prepare to part ways beyond high school graduation.

Free Download: 6 Proven Steps to Book More Paid Speaking Gigs in 2024​

Download our 18-page guide and start booking more paid speaking gigs today!

FAQs on Valedictorian Speeches

What should i say in my valedictorian speech.

Highlight shared triumphs, express gratitude, and inspire your peers to embrace future challenges with optimism.

What is a valedictory speech example?

An effective valedictory speech might start by recalling a common freshman challenge and end on hopeful notes about the journey ahead.

How do you make a valedictorian speech unique?

Weave in personal stories that echo the class’s spirit. Use humor wisely and leave them pondering fresh ideas or perspectives.

What is the main purpose of a valedictorian speech?

To celebrate achievements, acknowledge collective growth, and rally classmates for upcoming adventures beyond high school halls.

Delivering a valedictorian speech is an art. It’s your story, your graduating class’s journey, everyone’s milestone. Remember the key takeaways: weave together personal triumphs with shared moments that defined you all.

Reflect on the lessons learned beyond textbooks—those are what will shape you moving forward. Embrace adversity since it taught you resilience and brought out collective strength you never knew you had.

Your valedictorian speech should be more than words—it’s a celebration, an inspiration, a final bow to high school life as you ignite excitement for what comes next. So go forth and conquer!

• Last Updated: February 29, 2024

Explore Related Resources

Learn How You Could Get Your First (Or Next) Paid Speaking Gig In 90 Days or Less

We receive thousands of applications every day, but we only work with the top 5% of speakers .

Book a call with our team to get started — you’ll learn why the vast majority of our students get a paid speaking gig within 90 days of finishing our program .

If you’re ready to control your schedule, grow your income, and make an impact in the world – it’s time to take the first step. Book a FREE consulting call and let’s get you Booked and Paid to Speak ® .

About The Speaker Lab

We teach speakers how to consistently get booked and paid to speak.  Since 2015, we’ve helped thousands of speakers find clarity, confidence, and a clear path to make an impact.

Get Started

Let's connect.

[email protected]

Copyright ©2023 The Speaker Lab. All rights reserved.

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

10 Tips to Write the Best High School Valedictorian Speech

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Writing a valedictorian speech can be challenging. Your audience has high expectations for you because you’re the highest-ranking student in the batch.

Don’t stress out. I’ve got nine tips for writing the best high school valedictorian speech that will make sure you leave an impact.

How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Do you want to create a memorable speech? Follow these ten tips to write the perfect graduation speech.

Tip1: Talk About What You’ve Learned in Your Speech

The perfect valedictorian speech is one where you share the essential lessons from high school. These are not lessons learned in the four corners of the classrooms but life learnings you can apply everywhere.

You can talk about the importance of loyalty to your friends, sportsmanship after losing a game, or teamwork from your school play.

Tip 2: Check for Themes

Almost every school graduation event has a theme. People at school will expect you to follow this idea while incorporating your own memories, advice, and stories.

If there is none, you can create a personal theme that shows the essence of your entire high school experience. Think about school events that fit in with the theme, then start writing your valedictory speech.

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Some sample themes include teachers and students who inspire, overcoming failure, connecting amidst adversity, and more.

Tip 3: Use an Outline

Follow this outline when creating a farewell address for your fellow high school students.

• Introduction
• Greet everyone congratulations.
• Introduce yourself.
• Give an overview of the last four years, from freshman to senior year. Mention significant moments like prom, homecoming, debate competitions, and more.
• What are you grateful for? Recall fun moments from high school you appreciate. Mention teachers you want to thank and the parts of the academic institutions that helped you achieve.
• Tie everything together.
• End with a memorable line.

Tip 4: Make Your Valedictorian Speech About Everybody But You

As valedictorian, you represent the entire school graduating class. So it only makes sense that you talk about everybody. Don’t turn it into a biography of your school accomplishments.

In Gilmore Girls , Rory wrote a valedictory speech entirely about herself. It’s the best example of what you should not do in real life. Not everyone cares about the books you read or your family members. It’s one of my fav shows, and I adore that character, but I shook my head at that scene.

Gather information about what the four years have been like for your classmates. Are there any school memories worth mentioning? Ask them what they want you to include in the speech. That will ensure your valedictorian speech becomes remarkable.

Tip 5: Your Opening Line

The hardest part about writing any speech is starting the introduction. Your opening line should instantly grab everyone’s attention, whether it’s your schoolmates, teachers, or parents.

Do not start your address with “Can you hear me?” or “Is this microphone working?” You also don’t want to share your nervousness while on stage.

Tip 6: Practice Like It’s Real

There are two ways to practice your speech. First, you can read your manuscript and rehearse your non-verbal cues. Make sure you maintain eye contact with the audience and use your hands for gestures.

You can also read it in front of trusted people so they can give you suggestions. Speaking in front of people will build your confidence. But if there’s no one around to help you, record yourself giving the speech to analyze areas of improvement.

Tip 7: See Your High School Years With a Sense of Humor

Another tip is to open your address with an attention-grabbing joke. This will keep your audience from being bored during the program.

One of the best jokes as a valedictorian is a self-deprecating one. It will make you more relatable to your batchmates. You can also share funny memories with classmates, teachers, and school administrators.

Tip 8: Learn the Art of Stage Presence

An outstanding stage presence is critical in giving an excellent speech. One way to achieve this is by embracing the power of the pause. It allows you to gather your thoughts and follow the outline you prepared for the speech.

Dressing to impress, respecting the audience’s time, and adjusting the tone of your voice also help. These small practices will allow you to get your audience’s reaction and remembrance.

Tip 9: Inspire Your Fellow Students

One of the critical features of a valedictorian speech is that it should be inspiring. Graduation is not only about celebrating the fact that you finished high school.

You also want your fellow students to look back at the best high school memories and then look forward to the future. Valedictory speeches should make everyone excited about college and their careers.

With the central theme in mind, try giving your fellow graduates an inspiring piece of advice. It can be about hard work, patience, overcoming self-doubt, and more. You can also use motivating quotes that will make a memorable valedictorian speech.

Tip 10: Hire a Speech Writer

Consider hiring a captivating valedictorian speech writer if you are having trouble putting your thoughts into words. They will help you deliver concise, clear messages that resonate with the crowd.

Professional speech writers also have excellent editing skills. They can spot spelling and grammar mistakes to produce the perfect speech.

Cheat Sheet of Inspirational Quotes

• “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” – John Dewey
• “I’ve learned it’s important not to limit yourself. You can do whatever you really love to do, no matter what it is.” – Ryan Gosling
• “There are no regrets in life. Just lessons.” – Jennifer Aniston
• “You must have some vision in your life. Even if you don’t know the plan, you have to have a direction in which you choose to go.” – Oprah
• “Take your risks now. As you grow older, you become more fearful and less flexible … Try to keep your mind open to possibilities and your mouth closed on matters that you don’t know about. Limit your ‘always’ and your ‘nevers.’ Continue to share your heart with people even if it’s been broken.” – Amy Poehler
• “Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
• “He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.” – Muhammad Ali
• “Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” – Nora Ephron
• “You and you alone are the only person who can live the life that writes the story that you were meant to tell.” – Kerry Washington

Cheat Sheet of Funny Graduation Quotes

• “The unfortunate, yet truly exciting thing about your life, is that there is no core curriculum. The entire place is an elective.” – Jon Stewart
• “Big pay and little responsibility are circumstances seldom found together.” – Napoleon Hill
• “At graduation, you get to wear a cap and gown, but it’s a good idea to also wear something underneath it.” – Greg Tamblyn
• “Remember, when it comes to applying for jobs, books ARE judged by their cover!” – Patricia Akins
• “Minds are like parachutes. They only function when open.” – Thomas Dewar

Valedictorian Speech Example

Today, December 10, 2022, we have become [name of school] graduates. We recall endless lectures, meeting best friends during lunchtime, and looking forward to prom and homecoming. We also remember occasional sports events, field trips, and examinations. Now, we are future pharmacists, engineers, teachers, doctors, business owners, and more. Some of us plan to start new families, while others might want to take the independent route.

This year’s graduation theme is relevant to our experiences. University of the Future: Reimaginations, Reconfigurations, and Realizations. It’s time for us to reimagine a life of connecting beyond the four walls of the classrooms. The pandemic taught us the hard way to reconfigure learning and connect despite the spatial distance. Our four years in school also made us realize that our families, friends, teachers, and school administrators are our rock.

We are thankful for our teachers who encourage group collaborations and have become a source of motivation despite the challenges. We are grateful for the employees behind Tech Support, Registration, Student Advising, and other offices because they ensure that a collective space for sharing and learning is operating smoothly and democratically. Most of all, we are thankful for fellow students who humanize our learning experience and offer support beyond school-related matters.

When you leave the hall today, celebrate everything you have accomplished. Celebrate every hardship you encountered from freshman to senior year. Thank yourself for staying strong and persevering despite everything. Look forward to the future while keeping your connections with everyone in this room. Congratulations, Class of 2022!

Practice, Practice, Practice

The only way to give the best high school valedictorian speech is to practice it regularly. Read it in front of a mirror, make revisions when necessary, then recite it in front of a few people. Check for their reactions and feedback.

Once you have perfected your speech, you’ll be prepared to take on the stage like an expert public speaker.

Proposal Speech [Tips + 10 Examples]

224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School, Elementary]

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Reflections On Friends, Hardship And 4 Years Of High School

Jeffrey Pierre

Salutatorian Paulette Olivas, left, stages with fellow Trevor G. Browne High School graduates at the Veterans Colosseum before 2019 Commencement in Phoenix, Ariz. Caitlin O'Hara for NPR hide caption

Salutatorian Paulette Olivas, left, stages with fellow Trevor G. Browne High School graduates at the Veterans Colosseum before 2019 Commencement in Phoenix, Ariz.

This year's high school graduates were born after the dawn of the new millennium. Some have dealt with school shootings. Others helped organize demonstrations to speak out against gun violence or climate change. We've reported on how college students are becoming more "nontraditional" than we think, but high school students — through social media and their experience — are also becoming more nontraditional.

So what's on the minds of these 18-year-olds gearing up to face the adult world? Many of them — valedictorians, class presidents and others — talked about their hopes and dreams in the speeches they made at graduation.

This year, the NPR Ed team — and member stations across the country — traveled throughout the U.S. to hear those speeches from the final moments of high school. Here's what some of them had to say.

Paulette Olivas

Salutatorian, Trevor G. Browne High School, Phoenix, Ariz.

Paulette Olivas, Salutatorian, Trevor G. Browne High School, Phoenix, Ariz. Caitlin O'Hara for NPR hide caption

Olivas, a DACA student, plans on attending Phoenix College in the fall, where she wants to study health administration.

Can I please have you raise your hand if at any point someone doubted that you would graduate? Keep your hand raised if the person that doubted you at some point was yourself. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the reality of many of these students lives. I want to congratulate every single one of you for completing high school and defeating all stereotypes and prejudice that others had of you. Some thought you would drop out, others thought you would be working 12 hours a day, but here we are proving that we made it and no one can take that away from us! I am still overcoming my own hurdles as Arizona legislation has made it almost impossible for DACA students like me to afford to go to college but I will not give up. I will go to college, I will graduate, and I will succeed as long as I always have God on my side.

Keaura Brooks

Class President, Woodland Hills High School, Churchill, Pa.

Students at Woodland Hills High School, outside Pittsburgh, have seen their school in the news multiple times over the years. Last year, the school settled a lawsuit that alleged " white school administrators had engaged in discriminatory behavior against the black students ." Students there also organized rallies after one of their classmates, Antwon Rose, was shot and killed by a white police officer. (A jury acquitted the East Pittsburgh officer in March.) Brooks touched on these themes in her graduation speech.

I won't claim to know each and every one of you personally because I don't. But that doesn't make us complete strangers. Maybe we only sat next to each other for three weeks in sophomore etymology. Maybe your best friend is the sibling of my cousin's ex-boyfriend. Maybe we only walked past each other once in awhile in the hallway and never spoke. But one way or another, our paths have crossed. Although it has its problems, this school is a family. This building is a home. No we don't always get along and God knows we didn't always want to be a part of it. But that doesn't mean we loved it any less. That is what I've taken away from my time at Woodland Hills: to accept people as they are, no matter where they've come from because everyone deserves a chance. As you go forward in your life, whether you're heading to a trade school, a university or simply wherever the wind takes you, remember to do so with an open mind and a full heart. Be ready for whatever the world throws at you and keep going because contrary to what the world keeps trying to tell you, you don't need to have all the answers right now. It's probably better if you don't. Life is a learning curve, not a test. So spend however much time you need figuring out what you really want. The world will change you in ways you would never expect, but you shouldn't fight it. Let it help you grow. We have been through so much in our years here, so don't let that weigh you down. But let it push you forward and be what helps you make this world a better place.

Taziree Smith

Valedictorian, Arvada Clearmont High School, Clearmont, Wyo.

This year's graduating class was seven students strong. The district — which covers a huge area, around 1,300 square miles — also has the smallest enrollment in Wyoming, about 90 students in K-12. Many students have a daily commute of 40 minutes to an hour on the bus.

Teresa McClure, Arvada Clearmont High School, Clermont, Wyo. Sofia Jaramillo for NPR hide caption

But in her speech, Smith didn't talk about a life of isolation, but looked forward to what lies ahead.

There is no easy path without obstacles to achieve your dreams and goals; however, don't worry or fret about those obstacles. Embrace them. Dive into them headfirst because you have nothing to lose. Don't back down from the bullies, stand up for yourself. They're going to be bullies that try to tell you that you can't achieve your goals but ignore them. Try and prove these individuals wrong. Also, if you're the type of person that's afraid to ask for condiments at a restaurant, you'll never get what you want. If you always back down, then you'll never reach your goals as easily as if you'd stood up for yourself — so stand up for yourself and share your ideas opinions and beliefs with others.

A Tiny Ceremony: Superintendent Charles Auzqui, left, congratulates the small graduating class at Clearmont Elementary, Arvada-Clearmont Junior and Senior High School in Clearmont, Wyoming. Sofia Jaramillo for NPR hide caption

A Tiny Ceremony: Superintendent Charles Auzqui, left, congratulates the small graduating class at Clearmont Elementary, Arvada-Clearmont Junior and Senior High School in Clearmont, Wyoming.

Jasmine Richardson

Valedictorian, Jennings High School, Jennings, Mo.

Richardson says she understands that college isn't for everyone. But since she started high school almost four years ago — through internships and extracurriculars — she has been preparing for that next step after high school.

JasmineRichardson, Valedictorian, Jennings High School, Jennings, Mo. Neeta Satam for NPR hide caption

After high school, Richardson will be working in a lab through a collaborative internship between her high school and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. She'll be attending St. Louis University in the fall where she plans to study chemical biology and pharmacology.

I never knew that I would be here standing before you to give this speech because at times, things felt almost impossible for me ... As we prepare to go our separate ways, I would like to leave you all with three lessons I've learned throughout my high school journey. The first one is be patient. Let's face it, we all know that after today most of us will not see each other again, and once that reality hits, you'll realize that you should've stopped and smelled the roses. All of us emphasized how ready we were to leave school and move on to bigger and better things, but the truth is those are years we are never going to get back and memories we won't experience again. The next lesson is to never let anyone else define you. No one has the authority in your life to tell you what you can and can't do. Nobody knows what the future holds for you and who you may influence along the way. Every last one of us is unique and that means we will take on different paths, lifestyles, and obstacles to reach success. I'm here to tell you it doesn't matter how long it takes or what order you do it as long as you get it done for yourself. Yes you are going to have failures along the way but that is just pointing you in a new direction to accomplish your goals. Your next job in life is to figure out what you like and what your calling may be. Yes, it's nice to have someone on your team, but the most important thing you can do for yourself is be your own cheerleader, encourage yourself and give yourself motivation to keep pushing forward even if the world may seem against you. Oprah Winfrey once said, "Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher."

Students cheer their class of 2019 at Jennings High School, during their graduation ceremony at the Chaifetz Arena in Saint Louis, Mo. Neeta Satam for NPR hide caption

Students cheer their class of 2019 at Jennings High School, during their graduation ceremony at the Chaifetz Arena in Saint Louis, Mo.

Mariana Dale and Laura Blackwood of KJZZ, Catherine Wheeler of Wyoming Public Radio, Sarah Schneider of WESA, Ryan Delaney of St. Louis Public Radio, Laura Isensee of Houston Public Media, Elizabeth Miller of Oregon Public Radio, Vanessa Rancano of KQED and NPR Ed intern Jacqueline Nkhonjera contributed to this report.

• high school

Valedictorian Speech Examples Challenge Class To Reach For The Stars

A valediction speech is a short speech that recaps the years the graduating class spent at the school and honors their achievement. The valedictorian prepares it, and it may be heartfelt, humorous, or inspirational. The best valedictorian speech examples advice, wish the graduates good luck, thank honored guests, and reminisce about the journey the class has experienced together.

At high school and college graduations, the students who rank the highest in the class are the ones who speak on behalf of their classes. The top student, called the valedictorian, presents a short speech known as the valedictorian speech .

This often follows words by the salutatorian, the second highest-ranking student, who also gives a speech.

Table of Contents

What Is The Definition Of Valedictorian Speech?

A valedictorian speech is a commencement speech given by the person with the highest grade point average (GPA) in the graduating class. It is worth noting that some schools have a weighted scale to ensure that students who have taken honors or advanced placement classes outscore students with an easier load of courses through their high school years.

It is a high honor to be the person to give this speech, as it is clear to all that the valedictorian has engaged in years of hard work to get to that point.

What Is A Valedictorian Speech About?

The graduation day speech given by the valedictorian is typically given after the salutatorian has spoken. While the salutatorian speaks on behalf of the graduating class, the valedictorian is speaking for (and to) his or her fellow students who are graduating.

Topics presented during great valedictorian speeches include:

• Gratitude:  The valedictorian or salutatorian expresses gratitude to everyone who has helped the graduates get to where they are appropriate, including faculty members, family, community members, friends, and fellow graduates. Speakers should communicate with other speakers to prevent duplication.
• Memories:  It is worth noting that class valedictorian recount not only their personal memories but those relevant to the entire class during their high school experience.
• Future Endeavors:  As graduates prepare to move to the next stage of life, a speaker may discuss what the future holds for the assembled students.
• Inspire:  The speaker inspires the class to pursue their dreams as they move on to the next stage of life.
• Quotes:  Quotes that inspire or reflect are excellent for graduation speeches. One might choose inspirational quotes to help set the stage for the speech or as part of the conclusion. The quote can also help transition between main points.

How Do You Write A Short Valedictorian Speech?

What if you are tasked with writing a very short speech? In some middle or high school graduation ceremonies, the speakers are requested to keep it short (3-5 minutes). When that is the challenge set before you, speech writing can feel tricky.

When given a shorter time, you need to get a lot of bang with fewer words. Shorten your introduction. Limit your main ideas to two (rather than 3-4). Find efficient transition thoughts. As you conclude your speech, you can pull the ideas together in a few sentences to make sure the anecdotes you have shared are clearly linked for those listening. One important rule for public speaking is quality over quantity. You can say a lot in just a few words!

What Do You Do If You Have A Lot Of Things To Say In A Valedictorian Speech?

It may be necessary to limit your speech due to certain factors. First, knowing how long the faculty advisors expect you to speak is important. Traditionally the valedictorian speaks for anywhere from 5-10 minutes.

As you begin brainstorming about your speech, sticking to the main ideas that resonate with most people assembled is essential. In other words, this is not about you and your best friends. The speech you prepare for the graduating class’s big day should engage the entire class. This is not the time or place for inside jokes or stories involving just a few class members.

Often, a class’s years together may revolve around a significant event that occurred during high school or college. Recent classes may have bonded over Covid restrictions, but natural disasters, the untimely death of a classmate, or political upheaval may have marked the years. (Ask grandparents. They may remember the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the Vietnam War, or Y2K as the focal point of their school years.)

One should also refrain from discussing anything controversial during a graduation speech. While current issues can be significant and worth talking about, this is not the forum for doing so.

When choosing anecdotes to share, limit it to three or four stories or thoughts that can be somehow linked together in an interesting way.

How To Write A Valedictory Speech For Graduation?

Wondering how to write your speech?

• Talk to others:  Classmates will have ideas on important memories you might want to share.
• Brainstorm:  Give yourself some time to think things through and brainstorm ideas on topics to cover.
• Planning:  Make an outline or organize your thoughts before writing. Do you have stories you can pull together?
• Write:  Start writing your speech! Like all speeches, the valedictorian speech should have a beginning, middle, and end.
• Read it out loud:  As you read your speech out loud, set a timer. Do you fit within the parameters given to you?
• Revise:  All great writers revise. Don’t assume your first copy is the best.
• Practice:  Once you have the final speech written, be sure to practice it either with someone, in front of a mirror, or by making a video.

What Are Some Valedictorian Speech Examples?

Valedictorian  Carl Aquino , graduating class of 2010 from West Hall High School, compares life to solving a Rubik’s Cube. He gives his speech with the help of a classmate who accompanies him by playing the guitar. You will enjoy the stories and analogies he uses with such fun humor.

Chase Dahl  of Weber High School class of 2015 gave another speech in a unique style. His speech is also a fairly short 5 minutes.

What Is The Best Valedictorian Speech Example?

Arguably, a contender for the best high school valedictorian speech ever was given by Alex Stone, part of West Boca Ratan’s high school class of 2022. He was particularly poised as he hit all the required elements for a graduation speech, wove an important personal loss into his speech, and tied the speech together with the quote by May Angelou, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away,

A former English teacher and currently an elementary principal in a rural school, Pam has honed her speaking skills in the classroom and before professional groups. Pam enjoys sharing her insights about public speaking almost as much as she enjoys running, which she does daily.

Recent Posts

Active Listening Absorbs The Whole Message, Not Just The Words

Active listening goes beyond hearing the words someone is saying to you and understanding the message they are conveying. Many only hear a small percentage of what is being said as they are...

Counteracting Fear Of Public Speaking With Coaching And Therapy

Nearly 75% of people experience the social phobia of fear of public speaking. The result may be nervousness before speaking or a full-blown panic attack. Practicing public speaking may lessen the...

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate

How to Write a Valedictorian Speech

Last Updated: December 10, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lynn Kirkham . Lynn Kirkham is a Professional Public Speaker and Founder of Yes You Can Speak, a San Francisco Bay Area-based public speaking educational business empowering thousands of professionals to take command of whatever stage they've been given - from job interviews, boardroom talks to TEDx and large conference platforms. Lynn was chosen as the official TEDx Berkeley speaker coach for the last four years and has worked with executives at Google, Facebook, Intuit, Genentech, Intel, VMware, and others. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,158,545 times.

Giving your valedictorian or graduation speech at the end of your time at high school is both an exciting and sometimes daunting task, and it is one that most speech givers relish. Its aim is to provide a persuasive, moving, and ultimately uplifting speech. You want to give your listeners a fond farewell to high school, and also inspire them to go out and achieve greatness. That's quite a task for a speech giver in just one address. You can do it, though, as long as you plan and prepare your address before you get up to speak.

Planning Your Speech

• Steve Jobs at Stanford in 2005
• J.K. Rowling at Harvard in 2008
• David Foster Wallace at Kenyon in 2009

• “Find and follow your passion”
• “You do not need to be perfect”
• “If you think and believe you can, you can”
• “Try selflessness and give back”

• Your outline should include multiple parts, sections, and subsections.

• Note any themes or trends amongst the students. Find the most common and important ones, and stick with those.
• Don't forget the smaller memories and lesser-known stories. Mentioning them during your speech will help make those people feel noticed.

• If you aren’t sure how your speech will go, think about if you were listening to it. Is this the kind of speech you would like to hear at your graduation? [5] X Trustworthy Source University of North Carolina Writing Center UNC's on-campus and online instructional service that provides assistance to students, faculty, and others during the writing process Go to source
• If you’re not sure you would enjoy it, your fellow students probably won’t either.

• Talk to your principal or teachers to get a sense of how much time you have. If they don’t have good guidelines, 5 to 10 minutes should be more than enough.
• The average speaker reads about 120 words in a minute. That is a little less than 1 page of double-spaced,16-point font, which you’ll want because it is easier to read. [7] X Research source

• Keep the message short, brief and to the point. This will make it easier to remember.
• Your message does not have to be philosophical or mundane. It can be humorous.

Including Important Parts

• One way to make this more accessible to the rest of the class is to finish this section by encouraging or reminding the other graduates to thank someone too.

• One style of joke is the funny inspirational quote, like Will Rogers’s “Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there,” or Ben Franklin’s “You will find the key to success under the alarm clock.” These clever lines can be a good start to a speech, introducing your big theme. [10] X Research source
• Look for funny stories specific to your school. These can help personalize your speech, and reference things that most of the audience will recognize. You can make fun of school construction that was “building the future one closed hallway at a time.”
• You only need to include a few jokes. This is a valedictorian speech, not an audition for your stand-up comedy career.
• Remember to write them down and rehearse them just like the rest of your speech. You don’t stumble over the punchlines or forget how they go on the big day.
• Keep it clean. Your audience will include teachers, parents, grandparents, and siblings, including your own, so make sure your jokes are appropriate for all.

• Make sure you mention specific accomplishments. Look for sports championships, awards, charity events, anything that you or your classmates accomplished during your time in high school. The more examples you can include that don’t involve you, the better. You are celebrating your whole class’ accomplishments, not just your own.

• As the valedictorian, you are probably going on to college after graduating. That may not be true for everyone in your class, so don’t forget to mention other possible avenues like getting a job or serving in the military.
• If you aren’t sure what kinds of things your classmates are doing after graduation, that’s a great thing to ask when you talk to them.

• If you don’t have a specific funny story about you or your friends, consider talking about how you’ve changed over your time in high school. Think about how you felt when you started as a freshman, how you got lost in the large school, or couldn’t reach your locker. A personal story is also a good way to add a little self-deprecating humor, as long as you are comfortable telling a story where you don’t look brilliant or cool.

• This means quotes too. One or two good quotes from famous people can be useful, as long as they relate directly to your main point. Remember that people want to hear you talk, not recite a list of famous lines.

Delivering Your Speech

• If you can, recreate the setting as much as possible. Wear your cap and gown so you will be comfortable in them, and practice at the podium or where the graduation is, if possible. The more familiar you are with the setting, the more comfortable you will be in giving your speech.

• Letting one or two tears out can be fine. You can always pass it off by blaming allergies, or make a joke about it being dusty in the room.

Sample Valedictorian Speeches

Expert Q&A

• Remember that you were picked to be valedictorian for a reason. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, to speak as the representative of your graduating class, so give it your best. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
• Bring a copy of your speech. While you may be able to memorize it, practicing in front of the mirror or your friends is a bit different than speaking at the actual graduation. Even if you think you know it all by heart, you’ll want the little reminder just in case. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid doing distracting things while giving your speech. This means keeping your phone off, making sure you don’t have a noisy keychain or coins in your pocket, and not chewing gum while speaking. These will make it difficult for people to hear you, and won’t keep their attention on your words. Thanks Helpful 18 Not Helpful 2
• Many high schools will review your speech before you give it to make sure you don’t touch on any controversial or inappropriate topics. It is not a good idea to submit one speech to the school, then give a completely different one as a way to get around this. Thanks Helpful 18 Not Helpful 6
• Avoid plagiarism. This is your speech, not a chance to use someone else’s. Make sure your work is original to you and your school. With so many speeches available online, it can be tempting to just copy one for yourself, but remember that will make it easy for people to catch you as well. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 7

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://personalexcellence.co/blog/graduation-speeches/
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/speeches/
• ↑ http://onlinespeechwriting.com/how-to-write-a-valedictorian-speech-an-effective-guide.html
• ↑ Lynn Kirkham. Public Speaking Coach. Expert Interview. 20 November 2019.
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/audience/
• ↑ https://skillpath.com/blog/hate-public-speaking
• ↑ http://blog.oup.com/2015/05/how-to-write-graduation-speech/
• ↑ https://www.bigbencomedy.com/archives/what-do-you-do-when-nobody-laughs/
• ↑ https://routinelynomadic.com/funny-inspirational-quotes/
• ↑ https://www.hawaii.edu/mauispeech/html/practicing_speeches.html
• ↑ http://www.npr.org/2010/12/06/131734718/just-breathe-body-has-a-built-in-stress-reliever

About This Article

To write a valedictorian speech, start by deciding on your theme. Choose something inspiring, like “find and follow your passion,” “you don’t need to be perfect,” or “if you think and believe you can, you can.” Then, make an outline of the speech with a few major points and a couple of jokes throughout, and plan to make your most important point at the end. Remember to thank the people who have helped your class along the way, and take time to reflect on the past. For tips on handling speech anxiety and connecting with your audience, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Jun 1, 2017

Did this article help you?

Emmanuel Santiago

Jan 4, 2017

Dec 27, 2016

Ashley Margareth

Feb 28, 2017

Jun 11, 2018

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

• School Speeches
• Introductory Speech
• Anniversaries
• Funeral Speeches
• Graduation Speech
• Persuasive Speech
• Wedding Speech
• Speech Tips
• Special Days
• Speech Topics
• Demonstrative
• About Author
• Privacy Policy

High School Valedictorian Speech - Good Luck And Goodbye

High school valedictorian speeches - go on ... get the balance right!

Being invited to present a valedictorian address is pretty amazing. It certainly indicates that you are held in high regard - congratulations!

So, just how do you get the balance righ t?

Go for great quotes -

Go for aknowledgement of people who made a meaningful difference in your lives -

Go for a brief trip down memory lane -

Go for great go-getters and achievers in your school-

Good Evening Honored Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen and the Graduating Class of ________.

Confucius said, "Wherever you go, go with all your heart "!

The Graduating Class of _______ at  [insert name of high school] has certainly displayed a lot of heart and dare I say, even more "GO". We have gone from strength to strength during our high school years and personified the ideal and vision of going for our personal best...albeit, some more diligently than others perhaps?

This gift, this ability to grow and go from strength to strength was patiently fostered and consciously inculcated by a significant number of people - people that we need to pay tribute to and thank.

Our thanks and appreciation must go to the Principal, the Staff, our Parents and the greater School Community. You never hesitated, you never gave up hope on any of us, you realized that every journey begins with a single step. And so the foundation of our elementary school education continued - day by day extending further.

Sometimes you encouraged us to run and sometimes you needed to hold in the reins - yet all the while you encouraged us relentlessly forward culminating in tonight - our graduation ceremony. We are grateful and privileged to have had your valuable input in our lives - the true value thereof we may only fully comprehend in the years still to come.

Perhaps it is time to go on a brief trip down memory lane? What would a high school valedictorian speech be without it?

The following was written in response to a science question: "You can listen to thunder after lightning and tell how close you came to getting hit. If you don't hear it...you got hit - so never mind!" Perhaps not the most scientifically accurate answer, but there is a certain undeniable logic and creative flair to it. We certainly have had some memorable moments.

Who can forget..... [insert a couple of memorable anecdotes that the majority of the graduates will recall or relate to - as always the reminder to laugh with people and not at people]

Creative flair, quirky behavior and poetic license aside, [insert name of high school] is incredibly proud of so many achievers - achievers across sporting, academic and cultural spheres. We are proud to call so many go-getters our very own!

[highlight some successes-  individual or groups - and offer words of congratulations]

And where do we go from here? Very often, young kids with their simplistic view of life tend to say it best!

The following insight was overheard in an elementary class: "I'm not sure how clouds get formed - but the clouds know how to do it - and that's the important thing!"

I'm not sure how we will get to where we need to be, how we will achieve our dreams - but I do know that we know how to do it...and that's the important thing.

We will be going out into the world, each of us on different paths, following different dreams. May you have every success, may you work hard and play straight, may you hold your head high, may our paths still cross from time to time and may you go with all your heart!

High school valedictorian speech - the important thing is that you know how to do it...so go for it!

Visit our free high school graduation speeches for more great ideas to personalize and make your own.

5 Tips For Writing A Memorable High School Valedictorian Speech

Some might assume that earning the highest grades to become the valedictorian in your high school graduating class was tough. But anyone who has made it that far will tell you: writing a memorable valedictorian speech is the real challenge. After all, as a high point of your class commencement ceremony, this once-in-a-lifetime moment honors not only four years of high school but must encourage everyone to look forward to the future. It's a tall order but follow our five tips below to write a valedictorian speech that your audience hears, remembers, and draws inspiration from.

1. Begin with a Goal

A helpful way to start is by understanding the unique goal of your valedictorian speech. Of course, you want to deliver a fitting send-off message to your graduating class. Still, to be memorable, you must also get them excited about the future as if an epic adventure starts soon. For inspiration, see the winners in our NSHSS Virtual Valedictorian Speeches , there you will find a recurring idea or central theme cementing each speech.

Examples of themes suited for high school graduation include:

•   People at school that inspired you
•   Significant changes between freshman year and now
•   Tips for moving forward after graduation

By establishing a personal theme, you'll produce a unique valedictorian speech that only you could write.

2. Make it Everybody

As valedictorian, you are there to represent the entire graduating class, not just your own experience. Be sure not to turn your valedictorian speech into a mini-biography of your high school accomplishments. While you're welcome to add personal anecdotes for flavor, it would be best to talk about everyone else in your class. It might take extra work to find out what the four years have been like for them. Using your chosen theme, provide the captive audience with memories and insights that their family and friends are eager to hear. That will guarantee your valedictorian speech achieves stellar status.

3. Hit the Highlights

To make your valedictorian speech genuinely unforgettable, you can tap graduation's unavoidable nostalgia by recounting the highlights of the past four years in high school. Sure, four years may not be a lifetime, but everyone in your class takes away lifelong memories from such a short period. With the right theme in mind, and a list full of memories you’ve gleaned, you’ll know the best anecdotes and stories that will resonate with everyone. In addition, you can include global events of importance that occurred during your high school years. Just remember to focus on the positives you all experienced together. 

4. Humor Speaks Volumes

Reading your greatest hits of high school memories like a shopping list will quickly bore your crowd. Why don't you write your valedictorian speech with a fusion of humor, no matter how tiny? We suggest making a big splash with something funny to open your address, then doling it out in smaller bits and pieces for the remainder. The best kind of joke to charm your listeners is self-deprecating humor, such as something that you (the valedictorian) failed at in high school. Or asking the audience if your hair looks good from the back row. Even a funny memory about a quirky teacher or favorite classes can likewise immerse your audience. It's a fun way to liven up your valedictorian speech.

5. Leave your audience inspired!

You've honored the past four years with many cherished memories recalled in a celebratory way. The other half of your valedictorian speech should inspire your fellow students. We suggest writing a clear call to action to end your address. You're not at your commencement to pick up your diploma. You're there to see everyone off to all the places they'll go after graduating. To leave everyone feeling inspired to face their next challenge, you can end your valedictorian speech with an inspirational quote. Since you and your fellow graduates should try to live by this quote going forwards, choose one that ties back to your theme and leaves everyone motivated. This circular approach will help round out your speech as a whole. 

 Examples of quotes suited for high school graduation include:

•   "There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind." - C. S. Lewis
•   "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." - John Dewey
•   "There are no regrets in life. Just lessons." - Jennifer Aniston

In the end, there is no perfect valedictorian speech, they are all different in their own unique way. Find a speech that best suits the way you want to send off your fellow classmates into their next adventure. But, when in doubt, follow these five tips to write a memorable one. While your address is vital to the ceremony, remember to keep it short and sweet. Unless otherwise instructed, cut it to ten minutes maximum, so people stay attentive. It might help to imagine yourself twenty years from now watching your valedictorian speech on YouTube. Will you regret anything you've written? Maybe, you’ll chuckle to yourself. Maybe you’ll cry. And maybe, just maybe, you too will be left feeling inspired by the young, wise voice calling out to from your past. 

Follow us on Social Media

WTO / Education / 12 Best Valedictorian Speech Examples

12 Best Valedictorian Speech Examples

A valedictorian is a student who attains the achievement of the highest academic standing in their class.

Valedictorians are honored because of their intellectual prowess, brilliant test results, and exceptional grades. They are the top achievers among their classmates. When a valedictorian is graduating from high school, he or she is expected to deliver a speech at the graduation ceremony. This speech is meant to honor their success and also inspire the other students academically.

As high school graduations mark the end of educational journeys, schools acknowledge the importance of celebrating students’ academic achievements. They publicly recognize their hard work and achievements to boost their confidence and spark their passions. 

A valedictorian gets the chance to deliver a special speech in front of a wide audience. This speech shares their educational experiences, motivating thoughts, personal opinions and aspirations. Such a speech not only motivates the top achiever, but also inspires the next junior batches to excel. 

What is a Valedictorian Speech 

It is a motivating speech that a top achiever of a class delivers at their graduation ceremony.

This speech is a source of inspiration to the younger students and self-reflection to the valedictorian. It is meant to encourage the students to work hard. Although this speech can be delivered at any educational level, we have focused our article on its high school type. In this article, we will describe in detail how to write a valedictorian speech for your high school graduation . We will provide details of how to craft each section of it so that you can be well-educated about it. 

Free Examples 

As a valedictorian, there is significant pressure on you to deliver a speech that captures the audience’s attention. It is essential that your speech is memorable and leaves an impact. To deliver such a speech, you must ensure that it contains a few necessary elements.

Following are the examples of valedictorian speech:

How to Write a High School Valedictorian Speech 

Although being honored as a valedictorian gives you the freedom to choose how you want to speak on your achievement, your speech can be more attention-grabbing if you follow the proper layout. Include personal experiences and anecdotes, but stick with the main structure. This structure of a speech is present in the examples we provided before, but we have also broken down and explained each part of it for you below. 

The main parts of a this speech consist of: 

The opening

The opening of speech of the valedictorian sets its entire tone. It is essential to engage the audience from the very beginning. Start by choosing a theme that will guide each point of your speech till the end.

• Failure is not defeat 
• Mistakes are the best teachers 
• The importance of kindness 
• Overcoming struggles together 
• Excelling unexpectedly 
• Difficult situations don’t define you

Selecting and setting a suitable theme guides you about what to reflect on and how to deliver each part to the conclusion. It helps you focus on the main points to deliver. You can also choose other methods of coming up with the most suitable theme for your speech such as talking to your classmates and getting ideas from them. After selecting a theme, craft the opening of your speech pertaining to it.

Begin by introducing yourself as the humbled valedictorian and thanking the school for honoring you. Express gratitude for the opportunity to speak. Once you are done introducing yourself and showing gratitude, introduce an opening line or a thought-provoking quote relevant to your chosen theme. Doing this will capture the audience’s focus and interest. 

Good morning, honored guests, trustees, faculty members, and fellow graduates. I, Ken Adams, batch 20XX of Stevenson High School am elated to have the opportunity to speak as valedictorian today. It is a day to be inspired and thankful. I am also thankful to everybody present today, including the motivating teachers, loving parents, and the honored principal Ms. Eleanor Sparks.

Winston Churchill said:

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” 

I stand successful before you today, but I, too, have a history of what seemed to be brutal failures. I held on to courage throughout my journey till here. 

Personal anecdotes 

Then, share personal stories or experiences from the time you have spent in the school. Share stories that show your emotional strength, perseverance, and hard work. Mention memorable moments of your journey, challenges you overcame, and lessons you have learned. These stories should also involve others who may be present in the audience, as that will evoke emotions among the crowd, and you will connect with them on a personally engaging level. Shared experiences also convey the importance of collaboration to the crowd. 

I remember one day as a sophomore when I had not studied hard enough for a mathematics test but was expecting good results and was utterly demotivated upon receiving a dissatisfying grade. I had thought I would never regain the confidence to strive for success again. My buddy Joe Smith, who is seated with my brother in the audience right there, said something deeply personal and motivating to me that day. He had said, “lack of effort does not define your potential”. Ever since that day, I never forgot what he had said, and it stuck to me each morning when I tried a little harder to do better in class. 

Acknowledge the teachers and staff 

Extending thanks to the administration and teachers who have significantly contributed during your educational journey is important. Do it next in your speech. Recognize their efforts and dedication and highlight how much you value their actions in your journey to success. Doing this is not only appreciative of these people, but also fosters a feeling of unity among the audience. 

Here, at Stevenson, we are blessed with some of the most amazing teachers I have ever studied from. Some of these, including Ms Bellum and Ms Wunch, have had a significant impact on how I see gaining an education today. They have taught me the importance of studying to be enlightened and educated, not to solely earn money. Apart from the loving teachers, Principal Eleanor has always put in her best effort to arrange the facilities we require for personal and educational growth for us. I am grateful to each of the members of the administrative and teaching staff here. They have given their best, just as we, as students have. They contribute majorly to teaching us how to be productive and sensible contributors to society.

Tell stories on shared classmate experiences 

Then, share classroom experiences in which you also comment on the achievements and strengths of your classmates. By including the graduating class in your speech, you foster a motivating and uplifting environment. Explain the things that your classmates did during your journey that made you proud of them.

Highlight their accomplishments and contributions in a motivating way. One of the most effective ways to comment on your classmates is by combining school experience with them. Reflect on the experiences in which you share insights about challenges, combined efforts, and transformations your whole class witnessed. Jogging down memory lane emotionally engages your classmates significantly.

Throughout our journey as high school students, we, the batch of 20XX have had each other’s backs. Starting from combined studies in the library, solving challenging mathematical equations after classes as groups, and extending till working on group projects side-by-side, we have been strongly united. Valerie McKenzy from our class got an A in her science project this year, and I remember how she had even stopped availing lunch break during the time she was working on it. Roger Phil also secured  A’s in multiple subjects throughout the year, and he has always tried his best to help us understand complex topics after we had bothered our teachers enough and still not understood them. It is the amalgam of such caring, considerate, and hard-working classmates who I see in the audience today and feel equally proud of. I may be standing here as valedictorian today, but I feel you all with me up here in this moment. We are a hard-working bunch. I am sure we will be there for each other in the future, just as we have been during this journey that is now ending. 

Motivate the audience 

Motivate the audience to work hard and succeed how you have too. In this section, you must focus on delivering a message that uplifts your fellow graduates. Do this by conveying words on resilience, hard work, and beautiful possibilities that may lay ahead. Provide insightful knowledge on how you suggest them to embark on future paths. 

As we stand at a turning point in the journeys of our lives, let’s recognize and acknowledge the potential to succeed in us. We are resilient, intelligent, considerate, and united. Again, I would like to convey how I think that failure does not mean defeat. If it did, I would not have been standing before you here today. I want my beloved classmates and juniors to always remember to hold on to hope. Hope is a beautiful thing. Never get hopeless due to minor setbacks or failures because it is these same failures and setbacks that teach us to be better versions of ourselves. If you remain confident in yourself, you will find paths to a thousand doors of opportunities.

Then, conclude your speech by thanking the teachers, administration, and students in the audience once again. Also remember to mention the parents and family members that stood by you during the journey at this point. End the valedictorian speech with a convincing statement that leaves the audience inspired. 

I would once again like to sincerely thank the honored faculty and administrative staff, my beloved classmates, and, importantly, my family. My parents have gone one step beyond their comfort zones in trying to facilitate me to gain an education always. Being valedictorian is only the first step on the road to success which I look forward to embarking on to make all of you proud. No matter how dark the night is, I know I will shine as long as I have hope.

Conclusion 

Delivering a speech as a valedictorian at a high school graduation may seem like a challenging task, but it is not, provided you are well-prepared. This article contains all the necessary resources you require to be prepared to deliver an excellent speech. We have ensured to provide you with the details that guide you to deliver a speech that emphasizes your hard work and efforts successfully. 

About This Article

Was this helpful?

Great! Tell us more about your experience

Not up to par help us fix it, keep reading.

10 Free Homeschool Report Card Templates

12 Free Calss Schedule Templates

10 Free School Report Card Templates (Editable)

Free Lesson Plan Templates for Teachers (Editable)

Thank you for your feedback.

Your Voice, Our Progress. Your feedback matters a lot to us.

Valedictorian Speech

Valedictorian speech generator.

You have been named valedictorian, congratulations! In writing your valedictorian speech, a speech outline is necessary. A speech outline will help you compose a well-organized valedictory speech. Speech outlines will help you identify the important details of your speech and put them in order. Simply put, speech outlines will be your guide from the beginning to the end of your speech composition.

What Is a Valedictorian Speech?

Valedictorian speech bundle.

Valedictorian Speech Bundle Download

Valedictorian Speech Format

1. opening:.

Greeting: Start with a warm greeting to acknowledge the audience. Example: “Good [morning/afternoon/evening], everyone.” Introduction: Introduce yourself briefly and your role as valedictorian. Example: “For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I am honored to stand before you today as your valedictorian.” Attention-Grabbing Opening: Use a quote, anecdote, or question to grab attention. Example: “As we stand on the threshold of a new chapter, I am reminded of a quote by Nelson Mandela: ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.'”

2. Acknowledgments

Thanking the Audience: Express gratitude to key individuals and groups. Example: “I want to start by thanking our incredible teachers for their dedication, our parents for their unwavering support, and my fellow students for making this journey unforgettable.” 3. Reflection on School Experience: Shared Memories: Mention significant moments or experiences that the class shared. Example: “We’ve come a long way since our first day here, from navigating the hallways to conquering challenging exams and celebrating our victories together.” Lessons Learned: Share personal anecdotes and lessons learned. Example: “One lesson I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but pushing through those moments taught me resilience.”

4. Inspirational Message

Encouragement: Offer words of encouragement and hope for the future. Example: “As we move forward, let’s embrace our dreams with confidence and determination. The future is ours to shape.” Motivational Story or Quote: Include a story or quote to inspire the audience. Example: “Remember, in the words of Steve Jobs, ‘The only way to do great work is to love what you do.'”

5. Looking Ahead

Future Aspirations: Talk about the bright future and the opportunities ahead. Example: “Today is not just an end, but a beginning. Let’s carry the spirit of optimism and hard work into our next adventures.” Call to Action: Encourage your peers to take action and make a positive impact. Example: “Class of [Year], let’s go out and make the world a better place. Congratulations to us all!”

6. Conclusion

Final Thank You: Express one last round of gratitude. Example: “Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way.” Closing Statement: End with a powerful closing statement or a wish for the future. Example: “Congratulations, Class of [Year]! Here’s to our bright future!”

Valedictorian Speech Example

Opening: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I am honored to stand before you today as your valedictorian. As we stand on the threshold of a new chapter, I am reminded of a quote by Nelson Mandela: ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.'” Acknowledgments: “I want to start by thanking our incredible teachers for their dedication, our parents for their unwavering support, and my fellow students for making this journey unforgettable. Without your encouragement and guidance, we wouldn’t be here today.” Reflection on School Experience: “We’ve come a long way since our first day here, from navigating the hallways to conquering challenging exams and celebrating our victories together. One of my favorite memories is [insert a meaningful or humorous anecdote, e.g., ‘the time our class pulled together to organize the best school carnival ever. The teamwork and spirit we showed made it an event to remember.’]” “Through these years, we’ve learned so much more than what’s written in textbooks. We’ve learned the importance of perseverance, the power of friendship, and the value of hard work. There were times when we felt overwhelmed, but pushing through those moments taught us resilience.” Inspirational Message: “As we move forward, let’s embrace our dreams with confidence and determination. The future is ours to shape. Remember, in the words of Steve Jobs, ‘The only way to do great work is to love what you do.’ Find your passion and pursue it relentlessly.” “We are stepping into a world full of opportunities and challenges. Let’s use the knowledge and skills we’ve gained here to make a positive impact. Whether it’s in science, art, business, or any field you choose, strive for excellence and never stop learning.” Looking Ahead: “Today is not just an end, but a beginning. Let’s carry the spirit of optimism and hard work into our next adventures. Let’s support each other as we embark on this new journey, knowing that we have the strength and courage to overcome any obstacles.” “Class of [Year], let’s go out and make the world a better place. Our journey doesn’t end here; it’s just the beginning of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. Congratulations to us all!” Conclusion: “Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way. Your belief in us has made all the difference. To my fellow graduates, I wish you all the success and happiness in the world. Congratulations, Class of [Year]! Here’s to our bright future!” “Now, if everyone could please join me in a toast… Here’s to our hard work, our achievements, and the exciting journeys ahead. Cheers!”

Valedictorian Speech Short Example

Opening: “Good evening, everyone. For those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I’m honored to stand before you as your valedictorian. As we gather here today, I am reminded of Nelson Mandela’s words: ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.'” Acknowledgments: “First, I want to thank our incredible teachers for their dedication, our parents for their unwavering support, and my fellow students for making this journey unforgettable.” Reflection on School Experience: “We’ve come a long way since our first day here. One of my favorite memories is [insert a brief anecdote, e.g., ‘the time we all worked together on the school play and it turned out to be a great success.’] Through these years, we’ve learned perseverance, the power of friendship, and the value of hard work.” Inspirational Message: “As we move forward, let’s embrace our dreams with confidence. Steve Jobs once said, ‘The only way to do great work is to love what you do.’ Find your passion and pursue it with all your heart.” Looking Ahead: “Today is not just an end, but a beginning. Let’s carry the spirit of optimism and hard work into our next adventures. Class of [Year], let’s go out and make the world a better place. Congratulations to us all!” Conclusion: “Thank you to everyone who has supported us. Congratulations, Class of [Year]! Here’s to our bright future!”

More Valedictorian Speech Examples and Samples

• Valedictorian Graduation Speech
• Valedictorian Speech for High School
• Valedictorian Speech for College
• Inspirational Valedictorian Speech

Graduation Valedictorian Speech

Edit & Download

Short Valedictorian Speech

School Valedictorian Speech

Student Valedictorian Speech

Valedictorian Nomination Speech

How to Start a Valedictorian Speech

Most great speeches are not created overnight. If you do not know where to begin, there are various speech templates and examples you may refer to. Now writing a valedictorian speech is an important responsibility that requires planning, creativity, and practice. Here are some steps to help you write a successful valedictorian speech:

Step 1: Brainstorming and Outlining

Begin by brainstorming ideas and organizing your thoughts into an outline. Consider your personal experiences, what you learned during your academic journey, and what you want to say to your peers and teachers. Write down all the key points that you want to include in your speech and organize them into a logical order. Read books and other  graduation speeches , and look for inspiring quotes and anecdotes to include in your speech.

Step 2: Introduction

Start your speech with an introduction that captures your audience’s attention. Consider using a personal story or a quote that relates to the occasion. This will help you connect with your audience and set the tone for the rest of your speech.

Step 3: Thanking the Teachers and Staff

Acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your teachers and staff members. Express gratitude for their support and guidance throughout your academic journey. This is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of those who helped you achieve your academic goals.

Step 4: Reflections on the Academic Journey

Reflect on your academic journey and share your personal insights with your audience. Discuss your experiences and challenges, and how you overcame them. Share your growth and achievements, as well as any lessons you have learned along the way. This is an opportunity to inspire your peers and offers valuable advice.

Step 5: Encouragement and Inspiration

Offer words of encouragement and inspiration to your peers as they embark on their next chapter in life. Share your hopes for their future success and emphasize the importance of perseverance, hard work, and dedication. You can also offer advice on how to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Step 6: Conclusion

End your speech with a memorable conclusion that summarizes your key points and leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Consider using a call to action that encourages your peers to make a positive impact on the world. Here are samples of how to conclude a speech .

Step 7: Rehearsal

Practice your speech several times to ensure that you are comfortable with the content and delivery. This will help you build confidence and deliver your speech effectively.

Tips for Valedictorian Speech

• Begin with a memorable quote, anecdote, or thought-provoking question.
• Example: “As we stand on the threshold of a new chapter, I am reminded of a quote by Nelson Mandela: ‘It always seems impossible until it’s done.'”
• Thank teachers, parents, and peers for their support and contributions.
• Example: “Thank you to our incredible teachers for their dedication, to our parents for their unwavering support, and to my fellow students for making this journey unforgettable.”
• Mention significant moments or challenges that the class faced together.
• Example: “We’ve come a long way since our first day here, from navigating the hallways to conquering challenging exams and celebrating our victories together.”
• Share a message of hope and encouragement for the future.
• Example: “As we move forward, let’s embrace our dreams with confidence and determination. The future is ours to shape.”
• Include personal anecdotes or lessons learned.
• Example: “One lesson I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but pushing through those moments taught me resilience.”
• Focus on positive experiences and future possibilities.
• Example: “Today is not just an end, but a beginning. Let’s carry the spirit of optimism and hard work into our next adventures.”
• Finish with a powerful closing statement or call to action.
• Example: “Class of [Year], let’s go out and make the world a better place. Congratulations to us all!”
• Rehearse your speech multiple times to feel confident and natural.
• Time yourself to ensure it’s concise and within the allotted time.

What is the purpose of a valedictorian speech?

The purpose is to reflect on the graduating class’s experiences, celebrate achievements, and inspire classmates as they move forward.

Who delivers the valedictorian speech?

The highest-ranking student, known as the valedictorian, delivers the speech at the graduation ceremony.

How long should a valedictorian speech be?

A valedictorian speech typically lasts between 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the ceremony guidelines.

Should I rehearse my valedictorian speech?

Yes, practice multiple times to ensure smooth delivery, proper timing, and confidence during the actual presentation.

How can I make my valedictorian speech engaging?

Use humor, personal stories, and relatable experiences to connect with your audience and keep them interested.

How should I end a valedictorian speech?

End with a memorable conclusion, such as a quote, a call to action, or heartfelt best wishes for your classmates’ futures.

How do I start a valedictorian speech?

Begin with a greeting, a thank you to key individuals, and an engaging opening that captures the audience’s attention.

What should I include in a valedictorian speech?

Include personal anecdotes, reflections on school experiences, gratitude to teachers and parents, and an inspiring message for the future.

What should I avoid in my valedictorian speech?

Avoid negative remarks, controversial topics, and excessive self-praise. Focus on positivity, inclusivity, and inspiration.

Can I use multimedia in my valedictorian speech?

If allowed, incorporating multimedia elements like slideshows or videos can enhance your speech, but ensure they complement your message.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Writing a Valedictorian Speech that inspires your classmates

How to craft a memorable Valedictorian Speech for graduation

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

High school president writes notes thanking fellow seniors — 180 of them

• Copy Link copied

Emily Post would be proud.

A high school class president in Massachusetts who gave a commencement speech wanted to recognize all of his fellow graduates. So he wrote them personal thank-you notes presented at the ceremony — 180 to be exact.

“I wish I could’ve acknowledged you all, but there was simply not enough time,” Mason Macuch of Lakeville said in his June 7 speech. “Instead, I want you to reach under your chairs, where you will find a personal note that I’ve written to each of you as a way to say one final goodbye and thank you for making these years that will soon pass the ‘good ole days.’”

The seniors at Apponequet Regional High School about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of Boston found envelopes containing 5-by-7-inch (13-by-18-centimeter) white cards with their messages.

Macuch said it took him about 10 hours to write the cards. As class president, he said he knew most of the students.

“I just wrote anything from farewell messages to little memories that I had with whoever I was writing to, or maybe if it was a close friend, a longer message to them,” Macuch, 18, told The Associated Press on Wednesday. “Anything that I could think of about the person I wanted to say about them before we graduated and went on our separate ways.”

Macuch had to clear the idea with school administrators first. He arrived an hour before the ceremony and got help from an assistant principal and a teacher taping the cards under the chairs.

It was a surprise to everyone, said his best friend, Conor Tripp, in an email.

“I do not consider myself an emotional person, but his speech and the gesture of writing each and every member a letter moved me so much and I was very emotional from that moment on,” Tripp said. “It was such a special way to acknowledge every member of the class and show a strong bond between the members of our class.”

Macuch said a lot of graduates thanked him in person afterward. Many parents sent him nice comments on social media.

“Some people I hadn’t talked to in a few years were just so thankful for them. It was really nice to see that they were just so appreciative of all the hard work that went into them, and it was a really nice way to say goodbye to everyone,” said Macuch, who is starting college in the fall and plans to study biochemistry.

He was trained well.

“My mom always pushes to write a thank-you note,” he said.

American Free News Network

Citizen Writers Fighting Censorship by Helping Americans Understand Issues Affecting the Republic.

The Misguided Advice in High School Graduation Speeches

High school graduation speeches are meant to inspire and guide young adults as they step into the next phase of their lives. However, too often, the advice given is impractical, overly idealistic, and fails to prepare students for the harsh realities of adulthood. A recent example from a 30-year-old teacher at a graduation ceremony today underscored this issue. His speech, which was excessively long and centered on his own personal achievements, primarily the pursuit of happiness. This highlights the disconnect between well-meaning advice and the realities graduates will face.

The teacher’s exhortation for graduates to “pursue happiness” is problematic because it oversimplifies life’s complexities and sets an unrealistic expectation. Happiness is not a constant state but a fleeting emotion that comes and goes. By encouraging young people to chase after happiness, we risk setting them up for disappointment when life inevitably presents challenges and hardships. Instead of focusing solely on happiness, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of resilience and the ability to navigate life’s ups and downs and persevere. 

A more constructive approach would be to instill the importance of finding purpose and shouldering responsibility. Life is filled with struggles, and without a sense of purpose, individuals are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and a sense of emptiness. Taking on responsibility, whether in personal relationships, career, or community, provides a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. It is through facing challenges and overcoming obstacles that individuals grow stronger and find meaning in their lives.

Filling young minds with false hope and unrealistic expectations can lead to significant psychological distress. When reality fails to match their idealistic visions, graduates may become bitter and disillusioned. This bitterness can manifest as a pervasive sense of victimhood, leading to a cycle of negativity and self-destruction. It is crucial to provide a balanced perspective that acknowledges life’s difficulties while also emphasizing the potential for growth and improvement through hard work and perseverance.

Graduation speeches should aim to empower students with realistic and practical advice. Encouraging them to work hard, take responsibility, and strive for continuous improvement is far more beneficial than promoting the pursuit of the emotion of simple “happiness” as an end goal. 

By acknowledging the difficult hand life often deals and encouraging proactive efforts to make positive changes, we can better prepare graduates for the real world. Ultimately, the goal should be to inspire a generation of resilient, responsible, and purpose-driven individuals who can navigate life’s challenges with strength and determination. Educators would do better to to fill newly minted high school graduates heads with an ultimate life goal to be “happy.”

If you enjoyed this article, then please REPOST or SHARE with others; encourage them to follow AFNN. If you’d like to become a citizen contributor for AFNN, contact us at [email protected] Help keep us ad-free by donating here .

Substack: American Free News Network Substack Truth Social: @AFNN_USA Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/afnnusa Telegram:  https://t.me/joinchat/2_-GAzcXmIRjODNh Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfnnUsa GETTR: https://gettr.com/user/AFNN_USA CloutHub: @AFNN_USA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Caltech Honors Graduates at 130th Commencement Ceremony

On Friday, June 14, Caltech celebrated its 130th Commencement ceremony, awarding 236 bachelor's degrees, 156 master's degrees, and 200 doctoral degrees to a total of 585 graduates.

The class of 2024 has faced unique challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so this year's event proved particularly celebratory. For many of the undergraduates, today's Commencement ceremony marked their first opportunity to commemorate such a significant milestone in person after missing out on high school graduations and beginning their Caltech journey virtually. Graduate students also relished the moment, remembering the obstacles they had to overcome during their degree programs.

At the ceremony, keynote speaker Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, delivered a thoughtful address to graduates. NVIDIA, a pioneer in accelerated computing, is one of the most valuable companies in the world and is credited with inventing graphics processing units (GPUs), which have helped fuel the artificial intelligence revolution.

Huang, who has been listed more than once as one of Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People," shared stories from his 31 years at NVIDIA, articulating lessons learned and advice to graduates entering a rapidly evolving world.

He spoke about the historic trajectory of computation, from the advent of the IBM System/360 in the 1980s to AlexNet in 2016, a groundbreaking convolutional neural network that was trained using NVIDIA GPUs.

"We saw the potential of deep learning and believed in it," said Huang. "No one knew how far deep learning could scale, but if we didn't build it, we would never know."

Huang emphasized how NVIDIA reinvented itself at every turn, pushing the frontiers of advanced computation and revolutionizing the industry through both graphics processing and supercomputers used to train AI models like ChatGPT. He urged graduates to be nimble in the face of change.

"The computer industry is transforming from its foundations," he said. "Computers today are the single most important instrument of knowledge and are foundational to every single industry and every field of science. If we're transforming the computer so profoundly, it will, of course, have implications in every industry."

Huang also reminded graduates to remain committed to their work and to face challenges with resolve.

"I hope you believe in something—something unconventional, something unexplored," he said. "But let it be informed and let it be reasoned. Then, dedicate yourself to making it happen. You may find your GPU. You may find your CUDA [NVIDIA's parallel computing platform and programming model]. You may find your generative AI. You may find your NVIDIA. I hope you'll see setbacks as new opportunities. Your pain and suffering will strengthen your character, your resilience, and agility, and they are your ultimate superpowers."

See the full Commencement 2024 photo album here

Dave Thompson (MS '78), chair of the Caltech Board of Trustees, congratulated graduates at the ceremony and welcomed special guests: members of the first class of undergraduate women to enter Caltech in 1970, many of whom were celebrating the 50th anniversary of their graduation. He invited them to stand and be recognized.

"They started something that has become really big," Thompson said. "To date, nearly 3,000 women have earned their undergraduate degrees from the Institute. In addition, some 1,700 women have earned their doctorates here at Caltech. And let's not forget that about 1,500 women have undertaken postdoctoral work at Caltech just in the last 25 years. Moreover, many distinguished women are currently part of Caltech's faculty and leadership team."

Thompson also reflected on the past year of breakthroughs at Caltech and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which Caltech manages for NASA. Among many accomplishments, he highlighted the application of AI to better predict monsoon patterns and cancer cases that are likely to metastasize , the development of a catalyst that improves the safety and environmental impact of a common chemical production process, and the launch of the Psyche spacecraft to explore a metal-rich asteroid.

The Institute awarded bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees to much fanfare from the crowd, including traditional celebrations from several undergraduate houses. For Venerable House graduates, train whistles were blown; for Lloyd House, a gong was rung; for Dabney House, housemates clapped rhythmically and sounded a Viking horn; for Avery House, a triangle was played; for Blacker House, a recording of the sound of a saw was played; and for Fleming House, the Fleming Cannon was fired three times during the ceremony and once at its conclusion.

After the conferral of degrees, Caltech President Thomas F. Rosenbaum awarded four special prizes and shared a message with the Institute's newest alumni, congratulating them and urging them to balance innovation and progress with a responsibility to society.

"You graduate at a time when change in science and technology and in society is accelerating at breakneck speed," Rosenbaum said.

"With change comes responsibility. As scientists and engineers, we are trained to employ AI and machine learning across a broad spectrum of applications and to understand their potential, both to improve the human condition and to cause harm. We have a responsibility not only for reflection but for action, a responsibility to evaluate premises using data and evidence, and a responsibility to situate discovery in a broad societal context."

He closed with a charge to graduates:

"As you embark on your new beginnings, you have the freedom to reimagine the shape of your lives and the directions of society. Change is manifest and inevitable, but it will not be powerful except in the context of our defining values. Congratulations!"

Related Links

Education | Popular East Bay principal put on leave 90…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Today's e-Edition

• Latest News
• Environment
• Transportation

Breaking News

Education | bay area air advisory extended through thursday, subscriber only, education | popular pinole principal put on leave 90 minutes after graduation speech, pinole valley high’s kibby kleinman was earlier reassigned to the classroom.

District officials have not publicly said why PVHS Principal Kibby Kleiman was placed on leave last month, but it came months after the West Contra Costa Unified School District board demoted him to teacher status without explanation, a decision that upset many parents and students.

Kleiman told this news organization he had his keys confiscated, was locked out of his work email and put on leave 90 minutes after his May 31 speech, but he declined to say more.  Video of the commencement address shows he struck a defiant tone in front of WCCUSD officials while wishing both himself and the graduating class of 2024 well.

“One question. Will you take me with you?” he asked the Spartan students. “This is the class I am glad to go out with. You guys must be advanced, because it took you four years to move out of here, it took me 11.”

While it remains unclear what prompted the district’s investigation of the former principal, he and PVHS Assistant Principal Ryan Kolb — along with the WCCUSD itself — were accused of mishandling reports of sexual assault in a lawsuit brought by a female student in March 2023 that is expected to be headed toward a settlement agreement.

In the lawsuit, the girl alleged the male student who assaulted her in December 2021 and January 2022 had been earlier accused of the same conduct by other girls, and that district and campus administrators, including Kleiman and Kolb, were aware of those reports.

District officials contacted the Pinole Police Department after the earlier allegations, but the lawsuit claimed the district did not take any measures to protect students from an alleged known abuser or separate the male student from the general student body.

WCCUSD lawyers began settlement talks with the plaintiff and her attorney after U.S. Magistrate Judge Alex G. Tse upheld several claims against the district, including sex-based discrimination and negligence. Tse, in his March order, dismissed individual claims against Kleiman and Kolb. The judge asked them to notify the court on May 31 if they needed longer to finalize a settlement agreement. The girl’s attorney later requested more time to finalize the deal.

May 31 also marked the same day Kleiman gave his final speech after 11 years as principal of PVHS. Kleiman made references to “elected functionaries” and “bureaucrats,” and told the students he was “not certain right at this moment I want to go, but if I have to go, you are the ones I wanna go with.”

“This class is my spirit animal. I’m ready to leave with you,” he said. “But your job isn’t done, and mine isn’t either. Go out there and speak your truth to power. Register to vote and raise your voice and ballot in November, and use it as a hammer to bust up what’s wrong. Use that same tool to build something much like it, only better.”

WCCSD officials did not respond to requests for comment on the matter, but the district generally does not discuss personnel matters or pending litigation. Officials also have not responded to a request submitted on May 8 by this news organization for records related to Kleiman’s removal from the principal’s office.

Kleiman declined to be interviewed, citing the ongoing investigation. A lawyer for the girl in the Title IX lawsuit did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The announcement of Keiman’s demotion in March left parents and students in shock, many of whom rallied behind Kleiman and have not held back their disdain for the school board’s decision.

A May 6 listening session meant to gather community input as to what qualities families would like to see in a new principal grew tense when participants reiterated their demands that Kleiman be reinstated as principal.

“He taught me how to be a mom. He made me want to be a better person,” said Ivy Shen, a parent of a former Pinole Valley High School student, who grew emotional when speaking about Kleiman.

Not all in attendence were sorry to see Kleiman go, though. Gabriela Gonzalez, a parent of a Pinole Valley High School student, described what she sees as a double standard — student athletes and other club participants get substantial support while students with mental, emotional and other needs are left on the sideline, she said. Her hope is for a new principal to strike a better balance.

“If we don’t have stable students, they can’t succeed,” Gonzalez said.

Dr. Camille Johnson, assistant superintendent overseeing human resources, and Summer Sigler, executive director of Secondary Schools Network, routinely told participants the district could not and would not comment on personnel matters.

The district last month announced Todd Irving would replace Kleiman.

This story has been updated to include the name of Kleiman’s replacement. 

• Report an error
• Policies and Standards

More in Education

Education | Newsom wants to limit students’ use of smartphones in school

Crime and Public Safety | Arrest made in UC Berkeley police vehicle firebombing, three other arson attacks

Business | Should you use a HELOC to pay your kid’s college tuition?

Education | Hundreds of students walk out of Stanford commencement over war in Gaza