Senior Speaker Information

All current candidates for graduation are encouraged to submit an application for the privilege of representing the RMC Class of 2026 as the Senior Speaker.

For consideration, please submit a complete application using the process outlined below by Tuesday, April 7, 2026 via The Buzz. The application can also be found at https://thebuzz.rmc.edu/submitter/form/start/709897. For any questions or concerns, please contact Professor Dyanis Conrad (DyanisConrad@rmc.edu).

Application

A complete application will include:

  • A letter to the Committee on College Life stating briefly why you wish to be considered for Senior Speaker.
  • A draft of your speech (not to exceed 5 minutes). You may choose to address subject matter you like. However, you may want to consider the following when crafting your speech:
    • Issues pertinent to your peers in the graduating class
    • Significant educational and personal moments of growth; the accomplishment of academic and personal goals
    • Meaningful and supportive relationships developed at RMC
    • World perspectives you have developed as a student of this institution

Two recommendations: Applicants must have two non-student members of the RMC community (at least one should be a faculty member) complete the following recommendation form on their behalf: https://forms.office.com/r/Sv4DpkbSFz (The form requires RMC log-in credentials).

The Committee on College Life will acknowledge receipt of your materials via email.  

Selection Process 

The Committee on College Life will consider all complete applications on the following criteria:

  • The depth, breadth, complexity, and stylistic appeal of the proposed speech
  • The applicant’s broad connection to their Randolph-Macon graduating class, as well as to the larger campus community
  • The applicant’s record of character and judgment during their time at the college. (These criteria may be addressed in the letters of recommendation.)

Up to four finalists will be invited to present their speeches to the Committee prior to the final selection.  The Committee’s final recommendation will be made in early May and forwarded to the President’s Office, which will announce the final selection. The Committee will provide the selected Senior Speaker with editorial suggestions that should be incorporated into the final speech.