In a statement to Annenberg Media, USC confirmed Wednesday afternoon that a student commencement speaker will replace the traditional valedictorian.
The university sent out an email Tuesday to graduating seniors with a 3.50 GPA and above and good academic standing, inviting them to apply. The university is asking applicants to write a 550-600 word original speech celebrating the class of 2025 and their shared experiences and memories to be considered.
The new process seeks to recognize academic achievement along with other abilities, opening the process to graduating seniors with varying backgrounds, experiences and degree programs. A Selection Committee of faculty, staff and student representatives will review applications and conduct interviews, then make recommendations to Provost Andrew T. Guzman, who will make the final decision.
“The new process was developed after a comprehensive review of student commencement speakers at peer universities. Many of those institutions have moved away from traditional valedictorians — based solely on academic grades — to allow for a wider group of students to participate in the application process,” the statement read. “We look forward to the selection of a Student Commencement Speaker who represents the spirit and experience of the graduating class.”
This decision follows the university’s controversial decision last May to cancel the commencement speech of the class of 2024′s valedictorian, Asna Tabassum. The university cited safety concerns as the reasoning behind the decision after Tabassum faced criticism surrounding pro-Palestine statements on her personal Instagram account.
The university did not respond to Annenberg Media’s question as to whether the student commencement speaker’s social media presence, the impetus for Tabassum’s rejected offer to speak, would be reviewed by the selection committee.
This is a developing story.