Worcester Colleges Announce 2026 Commencement Speakers

Thousands of diplomas to be awarded, preceded by speeches and presentations.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:55pm

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A bold, abstract grid of stylized graduation cap icons in neon blue, pink, and yellow, capturing the celebratory energy of college commencement ceremonies.Colleges in Worcester celebrate the class of 2026 with a lineup of renowned commencement speakers.Worcester Today

Colleges in the Worcester, Massachusetts area have announced their commencement speakers for the upcoming 2026 graduation ceremonies. Anna Maria College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and Clark University will all feature notable speakers addressing their graduating classes.

Why it matters

Commencement speeches are an important tradition that provide inspiration, wisdom, and perspective to students as they transition from college to the next phase of their lives. The selection of speakers reflects the values and priorities of each institution.

The details

Anna Maria College has invited author and professor Roosevelt Montás to deliver the commencement address. Worcester Polytechnic Institute has selected renowned engineer and inventor Megan Smith as their speaker. Clark University has invited acclaimed author and philosopher Kwame Anthony Appiah to address their graduates.

  • The Anna Maria College commencement will take place on May 9, 2026 on the school's campus.
  • The Worcester Polytechnic Institute graduation ceremony is scheduled for May 16, 2026.
  • Clark University's commencement is set for May 23, 2026.

The players

Roosevelt Montás

Author of "Rescuing Socrates: How the Great Books Changed My Life and Why They Matter for a New Generation" and professor at Columbia University.

Megan Smith

Renowned engineer, inventor, and former Chief Technology Officer of the United States.

Kwame Anthony Appiah

Acclaimed author, philosopher, and professor at New York University.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to have the opportunity to address the graduating class of Anna Maria College and share my perspective on the enduring value of the liberal arts.”

— Roosevelt Montás, Author and Professor

“As an engineer and inventor, I'm excited to inspire the next generation of WPI graduates to tackle the world's greatest challenges through innovation and creativity.”

— Megan Smith, Former U.S. Chief Technology Officer

“The transition from college to the real world is a pivotal moment, and I hope to offer Clark's graduates some philosophical insights to guide them on their journey.”

— Kwame Anthony Appiah, Author and Professor

The takeaway

The diverse array of commencement speakers selected by Worcester-area colleges reflects the institutions' commitment to providing their graduates with unique perspectives and inspiration as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.