Valedictorian | Arts | University of Waterloo

There are no valedictorians for Fall Convocation (October). Students who submit an "Application to Graduate" form for October 2025 or June 2026 convocation can apply to be valedictorian for the June 2026 convocation.

Up to three (3) Arts Valedictorians will be selected for June 2026 Convocation

Valedictorian Nominations

If you are interested in representing your class as valedictorian:

Complete the Valedictorian self-nomination form.Eligibility requirements are listed on the form.
Obtain support from 5 nominators, who must complete the Valedictorian Nominator – Declaration of Support form.

Steps 1 & 2 are due March 2, 2026, 11:59pm EST. Please note that the forms will open the first week of February 2026.

Those who are successful in their nomination will be required to submit an electronic copy of their three-minute written speech (Word format is preferred) no later than Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 11:59pm and present during the Valedictorian talk-off in an evening in late March (exact date TBD).

Speech guidelines and evaluation criteria can be found below.

If you have any questions please contact Amy Dunlop, Student Engagement Coordinator.

Valedictorian – Selection Committee Application

Have your say in choosing your class valedictorian by applying to participate on the Selection Committee.

The successful Valedictorian will be notified by email in early April.

Convocation – Class of 2026

Visit the University of Waterloo Convocation page for more information and frequently asked questions, including questions about Grad photos.

Valedictorian Speech Guidelines

Valedictory speeches fall under the category of “special occasion” speeches. As such, they are more formal in tone and diction than other speeches, and strive to underline the values and emotions of the audience. In short, the speaker speaks about what he or she believes are the most important sentiments of the graduating class. A valedictorian must show the evaluators that he or she has mastered the basic components of speech design and delivery. Valedictory speeches are intended to be individual submissions.

Signs of a good speech design

The audience should be able to follow the speech without ANY sense of confusion.
The audience should know that the speaker has moved from the introduction to the main body of the speech, and from the main body to the conclusion.
The audience should know which point the speaker is making based on solid transition words, e.g., “first”, “next”,etc.
The audience should feel that the speech has been appropriate and satisfied the needs of the occasion.

Signs of a good speech delivery

Energized, inspirational voice
Let your personality come through
Effective body movement
Projection and enunciation

Evaluation criteria

Written statement
Achievements
Presentation
Content

Component	Goals
Introduction	Gains attention and interest Previews topic Demonstrates importance of topic
Body	Main ideas clearly presented Relationship of ideas clear to audience Effective transitions Use of data or other relevant, illuminating content
Conclusion	Provides summary/clear signal speech is closing Memorable statement
Language	Appropriate Interesting
Purpose	Purpose is clear Subject is appropriate to this audience
Authenticity/Originality	Point of view or “take” on topic is highly original Presentation and presence are genuine, personal, and allow personality to come through
Delivery	Voice Conversational manner Loudness Articulation Non-verbal factors Posture Movement, gestures Eye contact