Sarah Jessica Parker To Be Northwestern's 2026 Commencement Speaker

Award-winning actress to receive honorary degree and address graduating class

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Northwestern University has announced that acclaimed actress Sarah Jessica Parker will be the commencement speaker for the Class of 2026. Parker, best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in "Sex and the City", will also receive an honorary Doctor of Arts degree at the June 14 graduation ceremony.

Why it matters

Sarah Jessica Parker's selection as commencement speaker reflects Northwestern's commitment to honoring accomplished artists and entertainers who have used their platforms to elevate the arts and amplify underrepresented voices. Her versatile and iconic career aligns with the university's interdisciplinary approach.

The details

Northwestern Interim President Henry S. Bienen praised Parker's strong support of the arts and humanities over her decades-long career in film, television, and theater. Parker expressed her honor at being invited to celebrate the Class of 2026, whose hard work and dedication she looks forward to recognizing.

  • The commencement ceremony will take place on June 14, 2026.

The players

Sarah Jessica Parker

An award-winning actress known for her iconic role as Carrie Bradshaw in "Sex and the City" and her versatile career in film, television, and theater.

Henry S. Bienen

The Interim President of Northwestern University, who praised Parker's support of the arts and humanities and her alignment with the university's interdisciplinary approach.

Northwestern University

The prestigious research university located in Evanston, Illinois, which has selected Sarah Jessica Parker as its 2026 commencement speaker.

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What they’re saying

“Sarah Jessica Parker has been a strong supporter of the arts and humanities for many years, and I am thrilled she will be our commencement speaker. From starring in and producing film, television and theatre productions to her successful business ventures, Sarah's iconic and versatile career speaks to the interdisciplinary approach we value and champion at Northwestern. I look forward to hearing her address our Class of 2026.”

— Henry S. Bienen, Interim President, Northwestern University (patch.com)

“I'm truly honored to have been invited to serve as this year's commencement speaker. It's a privilege to celebrate a graduating class whose years of hard work, dedication to their studies, commitment to one another, their community and the larger world deserve real recognition. I'm very much looking forward to addressing the Class of 2026 as they step into what I know will be an exciting and promising future. Congratulations to the graduates, it will be a thrill to celebrate your achievement.”

— Sarah Jessica Parker (patch.com)

What’s next

The commencement ceremony where Sarah Jessica Parker will address the Class of 2026 is scheduled for June 14, 2026.

The takeaway

Sarah Jessica Parker's selection as Northwestern's 2026 commencement speaker highlights the university's commitment to honoring accomplished artists and entertainers who have used their platforms to elevate the arts and amplify underrepresented voices. Her versatile and iconic career aligns with Northwestern's interdisciplinary approach, making her an inspiring choice to address the graduating class.