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It’s Graduation Season: Commencement Speeches Worth Hearing 

20 May, 2026 Anne Llewellyn

                               
The Case Manager

Every spring, commencement speakers share lessons, inspiration, and wisdom with graduates across the country. Recently, The Washington Post highlighted several memorable commencement speeches, and I thought I would share a few of my favorites. Even if you are long past graduation, these speeches offer insights that can inspire all of us. 

Donovan Livingston – Harvard University (2016) 
Harvard University called Donovan Livingston’s spoken-word commencement speech “one of the most powerful, heartfelt student speeches you will ever hear.” 
Watch the speech 

Shonda Rhimes – Dartmouth College (2019) 
The creator and producer of Grey's Anatomy encouraged graduates not to let fear derail their dreams and challenged the traditional advice to simply “dream big.” 

Watch the speech 

Arthur Brooks – Vanderbilt University 
Arthur Brooks, known for his research on happiness, spoke about what creates a meaningful and happy life: having a true sense of purpose. 
Watch the speech 

Steve Jobs – Stanford University (2005) 
Steve Jobs reflected on how dropping into a calligraphy class after leaving Reed College unexpectedly shaped the future of personal computing and design. His message about connecting the dots remains timeless. 
Watch the speech 

Steve Carell – Northwestern University 
Steve Carell encouraged graduates to resist cynicism, look for the best in others, practice kindness — and remember to dance. 
Watch the speech 

My all-time favorite commencement speech is by Admiral William H. McRaven. In his 2014 commencement address at the University of Texas at Austin, Admiral McRaven reminded graduates that changing the world can begin with something as simple as “making your bed.” 
Watch the speech 

Do you have a favorite commencement speech? If so, share it in the comment section— I’m always looking to add more to my list. Wishing you and your families a happy and meaningful Memorial Day weekend. 

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    About The Author

    • Anne Llewellyn

      Anne Llewellyn is a registered nurse with over forty years of experience in critical care, risk management, case management, patient advocacy, healthcare publications and training and development. Anne has been a leader in the area of Patient Advocacy since 2010. She was a Founding member of the Patient Advocate Certification Board and is currently serving on the National Association of Health Care Advocacy. Anne writes a weekly Blog, Nurse Advocate to share stories and events that will educate and empower people be better prepared when they enter the healthcare system.

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