Student Speakers

• Applicant must be eligible to graduate at the next convocation ceremony
• Be in good academic and disciplinary standing
• Commit to attend and participate fully in the convocation ceremony, including any rehearsals
• Complete the online application by Friday, April 25, 2025 with:

1. Contact Information
   • Name
   • Student ID
   • Email
   • Phone
   • Program
   • Biography: A short bio (200-250 word) of yourself will appear on the Convocation webpage should you be the successful applicant:
     • Name
     • Program credential you are graduating with
     • Highlight any awards received or associations you have participated in during your time at CapU
     • Please share an accomplishment in your studies that you are proud of
     • What two lessons have you learned on your journey as a student at CapU?
     • Now that you have your credential(s), what are your future ambitions?
     • Who would you like to thank for supporting your educational journey?
2. Video recording of statement of interest describing your engagement with Capilano University and the broader community, personal growth, how you got here, and challenges you've faced. Please record your Statement of Interest (maximum 2 minutes) to convey how you would present your Convocation speech. This does not need to be your prepared speech but should serve as your introduction to your topic.
3. Include one letter of reference from staff or faculty and contact information for one other reference we can contact if needed.
4. Headshot: Be available for an on-campus headshot on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

The Student Speaker Committee will consider the following when making their selection of student speakers: 

• Clarity of ideas and speech content
• Appeal to a broad audience & shared experiences with fellow Capilano University students
• Extent to which the speech reflects the values of CapU
• Speaker’s delivery – well prepared, engaging, vocal variety, animated delivery, stage presence

An engaging and lively convocation address should: 

• Be relatable to other graduands
• Be inspiring in tone and/or message
• Be told in your own voice (authentic)
• Honour the significance of the occasion
• Reflect on the CapU journey (past to present)
• Be a call to action to your fellow graduands (future)

1. Eligible and interested students are required to complete the online application form.
2. The Convocation Student Speaker Committee will review entries and choose student speakers based on the above criteria.
3. The Committee will notify all applicants no later than two weeks after the deadline for submissions.
4. The Committee will send the selected students a speech sample from past years and instructions for their role at convocation.
5. Please note that speeches are limited to three minutes in length (which translates to 400 – 450 words). Student speakers will submit their speech drafts to the convocation team for review three weeks prior to the ceremony. If necessary, selected speakers will work with the University’s Communications team to refine their speech and delivery.