<p>I disagree, partially, with JHS’ view. While I think the commencement speaker should be - per tradition - a professor, I’m fully in favor of starting a “Class Day” event around graduation. Also per tradition, the professor’s speech tends to be quite academic, which is fine. As a new tradition, having a Class Day that is quite celebratory, with a “famous” speaker, maybe chances for some student groups (a couple of the a capella groups maybe?) to perform, and maybe some remarks by a Quantrell Teaching Award winner would be wonderful. Finish it off with a little reception on the Quads. </p>
<p>I’d say it’d be best to keep the speakers and price pretty moderate. No need to get Bono or Tom Hanks - but certainly someone with cache could come in for a small honorarium. Loads of connected speakers are already coming in for the Institute of Politics. </p>
<p>To sum, I think a few hours purely for celebration and entertainment is perfectly reasonable. UChicago’s actual commencement tends to be more thoughtful - which is great - but having a separate event just for the graduating students, aimed at celebration, would be fun too.</p>