Speaking Of...

Author JK Rowling speaks to the Harvard Graduates, 2008

It's that time of year--graduation ceremonies, and words of wisdom for graduates, spoken by guest speakers, famous and less well known. Some schools have bucked the trend of inviting celebrities to give commencement addresses, in response to alumni and student feedback that says these speakers don't relate well to students.

In many cases that's true--celebrity doesn't necessarily equal good speaker. Actors and other celebrities are often wonderful on camera or onstage, where the words are scripted. But get them in front of a student/alumni/school staff/parent audience, even with a written/prepared speech, and they are often less effective. My 1983 college graduation with the late Arthur Schelsinger as our speaker was a case in point. Few remember anything he said--we were all talking to one another, wondering when he'd finish. Brilliant man, poor commencement speaker.

As my intern colleague learned (see last post), audience connection is key. The 1983 audience I was part of numbered more than 6,000. San Diego State University is not only large, but is also known for its location close to the coast, sunny weather, and its laid back lifestyle. Graduates adorn their caps and gowns with all kinds of wacky trimmings, the more outrageous the better. It was hot that day, and we were in the brilliant sun for a long time. Into this party like atmosphere a serious political/historical speaker of Schlesinger's generation would need to work very hard to connect with us.

Parents and alumni may enjoy profound words of wisdom about the future--students want humor and please, be brief! You have to wonder if the organizers of these events can remember this. I can guarantee that one of our own graduates (one who was ALREADY a good and funny speaker) would have made a far better keynote choice on that important day. If you're ever asked to speak at a graduation remember--know your audience.

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