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Selection of Valedictorian

Updated February 2024

The Valedictorian for Spring Convocation is chosen by a Selection Committee based on nominations/applications from members of the Graduating Class of the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work Programs. The Valedictorian for the Summer Convocation is selected by the School of Education.  

Eligibility

  • The candidates for the Spring Convocation Valedictorian must meet the following criteria:    
  • be graduating from the BA, BSW, or BAA programs;  
  • have completed the application to graduate and be eligible to graduate at Spring Convocation;  
  • have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.7 on their last 60 credit hours;  
  • have demonstrated involvement in academic, campus life, and/or community activities; and
  • possess strong public speaking skills.   

This Selection Committee is comprised of the Vice-President (Academic and Research), Dean of Social Sciences, Dean of Humanities, Registrar, Associate Vice-President (Enrolment Management), Grad Class President, and a Faculty Member.  

Nomination Process  

1. Application   

The nomination process will be completed using MS Forms (see below). If an applicant is nominated by someone else, the nominee must also complete an application form. A nomination must include one (1) nominator and three (3) seconders. The candidate will answer these questions on the online application:    

  • What were the highlights of your time at STU?  
  • How have you or your classmates changed over your years at STU?  
  • What service or volunteering have you done? What impact has it had on you?  
  • Why do you feel you are a good representative for your graduating class?  
  • What messages would you deliver in the Valedictory Address?  
  • What have you learned at STU that has prepared you for further education, career, or citizenship?

2. Resume/Transcript   

Candidates must also submit a detailed resume outlining academic, campus, and community involvement and achievements. The Selection Committee will secure the nominee’s transcript from the Registrar’s Office.  
 
3. Letters of Recommendation  

Two letters of recommendation are required: (1) from a faculty member (i.e., current/former professor) and (2) from a graduating student. These can be uploaded through the MS Form.   
 
4. Deadlines/Interview/Form   

The deadline to submit an application with supporting materials is Monday, April 8, 2024, at 4:00 pm. Nominations will only be considered when all required elements are completed.   
 
After the initial review of applications, the Selection Committee will choose 2 to 3 candidates to move forward to the next stage in the selection process. Those candidates chosen to move to the second stage will be invited to an interview with the committee where they will give their potential valedictory speech. The speech should be approximately 1000 words in length. Candidates should also be prepared for an interview based on their application/nomination package and their speech. These presentations will be scheduled individually by the President’s Office.   
  
The decision will be made and communicated following the interviews.

Spring Convocation Valedictory Address  

Valedictorians must submit a final copy of their Valedictory Address (between 900 and 1100 words) to the Vice-President (Academic and Research) by Tuesday, May 7, 2024 (which is one week prior to Spring Convocation).