USC announced Wednesday that it is changing the process of choosing a student commencement speaker. This includes includes no longer naming a valedictorian or salutatorian.
The university says it’s doing this to create a more inclusive approach to recognizing academic achievement. USC media relations issued a statement saying the goal is to “open the process to outstanding graduating seniors with varied backgrounds, experiences and degree programs.”
The announcement comes less than a year after the university’s controversial decision to cancel the commencement speech for last year’s valedictorian, Asna Tabassum.
Jules Cox, a sophomore majoring in journalism, expressed optimism about more students having the opportunity to apply for the commencement speaker role.
“I think its interesting,” he said. “I think following all of the kind of disruptions that happened with graduation last year, It’s kind of interesting for them to do a move like this but I’d like to see the pros and cons of it. I generally think it’s good. It’s accepting of everyone. I think that’s nice.”
USC officials say the new plan is informed by a selection process developed at other universities that no longer name a valedictorian. The a selection committee of faculty, staff, and student representatives will make student recommendations to Provost Andrew T. Guzman, who will make the final decision.