Application Materials

Those who wish to apply to be a student commencement speaker must complete the online application form.

Students must self-nominate. Each ceremony will feature one student speaker who will share their UNLV journey and reflect on the Rebel experience. The student speaker must be a member of the graduating class they plan to address. In total, three student speakers—one per ceremony—will be chosen through a competitive application process.

If selected, the applicant agrees to give only the submitted speech. The applicant understands that if they materially deviate from the submitted speech or speak for an extended period beyond the allotted time, this constitutes unethical conduct. Material deviation from the submitted speech may also result in discipline under the Student Conduct Code and any other applicable policy.

Deadlines

The deadline for submitting applications for the Fall 2026 Commencement ceremony is Sunday, November, 22 at 11:59 p.m. If students choose to include a letter of nomination, they may ask the nominator to email it directly to president@unlv.edu.

Selection Process

The Selection Committee will review eligible applications and make a recommendation to the President.

Prepare Your Application

Please allow approximately 20–30 minutes to complete the online application, once all materials have been prepared.

Applicants must prepare and upload the following materials:

1. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Submit a current resume or CV in PDF format.

2. Draft Commencement Speech

Your draft should be:

  • Approximately 1.5–2 pages in length
  • Double-spaced
  • Your original work
  • Submitted in PDF format

3. Video of Your Commencement Speech

Record yourself delivering your draft speech as though you were speaking at commencement.

  • Deliver the speech as if presenting at commencement.
  • Business professional attire is recommended.
  • Record in a quiet setting with clear audio.
  • Video should not exceed 5 minutes.

4. Name Badge

  • Create and submit a name badge following the instructions provided in the application.

Applicants must respond to the following three questions. Each response has a 3,000-character limit.

1. Why do you wish to serve as a UNLV Commencement Speaker?

Describe your motivation for applying and what this opportunity means to you. Focus on your purpose in addressing your graduating class.

2. How does your story reflect the UNLV experience?

Reflect on your growth, challenges, leadership, community, and defining moments. Consider how your journey connects to the broader graduating class.

3. Context for Review Committee

Please share any contextual information that may help the committee fully understand your journey or achievements. Examples include significant barriers, nontraditional pathways, or major life circumstances.

The application also provides opportunities to share additional accomplishments and experiences. These questions are optional, and applicants are encouraged to respond to those that are relevant to their experiences.

Academic Distinctions or Honors Received

Include dates.

Scholarly, Research, or Creative Work

Briefly describe your most significant academic or scholarly contributions. Focus on outcomes, scope, and impact. Include dates.

Campus Involvement

Please list leadership roles held, including duration and scope of influence.

Examples include department, college, university-wide, community, or national.

Service & Community Engagement

Describe meaningful service activities and who benefited from this work.

Professional, Clinical, or Creative Impact

Describe internships, professional practice, performances, exhibitions, publications, mentorship, or applied projects relevant to the degree level. Please include the date received.

Honors & Awards

Please list significant honors, awards, scholarships, fellowships, publications, or recognitions received during your time at UNLV. Please include the date received.

Public Speaking Experience

Please describe any prior public speaking experience.

Examples may include conferences, performances, ceremonies, student government, advocacy events, or other formal speaking engagements. Include approximate audience size if known.

Helpful Tips

  • Prepare your materials in advance. Ensure your resume or CV, draft speech, speech video, and name badge are ready before beginning.
  • Draft your written responses separately. We recommend preparing your responses in a separate document so you can review and refine them before submitting.
  • Focus on your unique experience. Your accomplishments, personal journey, and perspective are what make your story meaningful. Not every optional question will apply to every applicant.
  • Review your submission carefully. Make sure all required materials are included and your responses are complete before submitting.

Ready to Apply?

Please complete the online application form.