Student Speaker

Are you interested in sharing your inspiring story and words of wisdom with your fellow graduates? Here’s your chance!

Participating in your commencement ceremony as a student speaker is a unique opportunity to represent your graduating class and share your insights at one of the most important moments in your academic journey.

We are excited to announce that student commencement speaker applications are open!

Commencement Ceremony Information

The 2026 Winter Commencement ceremony will be held Friday, December 11, 2026, at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, NY, at 6 p.m.

Additional ceremony details are posted to the Ceremony Information page.

Ready to take the stage?

To submit the speaker application form, select "Login in SUNY Empire ID" and sign in with your SUNY Empire credentials.

The application form requires the submission of a video sample, a written speech draft, and a reference. Applicants must also be eligible to participate in the winter commencement ceremony in order to be considered for student speaker selection.

Complete the speaker application form by Sunday, November 8, 2026.

A committee of faculty and staff will review applications and select a student speaker. The selected student speaker will be notified by Friday, November 13.

The selected student speaker will receive support from Academic Support and the Office of Student Experience to refine and prepare their speech.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to studentlife@sunyempire.edu.

We look forward to hearing your voice!