Student Speaker
The deadline to submit a student speaker application for a spring commencement ceremony has passed.
Information about applying to speak at the December 2026 commencement ceremony in Albany, NY, will be available in the fall.
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.
Commencement Ceremony Information
Spring commencement ceremonies will be held in Albany, Manhattan, and Rochester, NY.
- Friday, May 8, 2026, in Rochester, NY
- Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in Manhattan, NY
- Thursday, May 21, in Manhattan, NY
- Friday, May 29, in Albany, NY
All ceremony details are posted to the Ceremony Information page.
Ready to take the stage?
Complete the speaker application form by Sunday, March 29, 2026. A committee of faculty and staff will review applications and make final selections. The chosen speakers will be notified by Wednesday, April 8. You will need to use your SUNY Empire credentials to log into the application.
If selected, you will work with a member of our Academic Support team to refine your speech before submitting it to the Office of Student Engagement.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to studentlife@sunyempire.edu.
We look forward to hearing your voice!