Here are the best graduation speeches of the year 2006.
There are some remarkable graduation speeches, that left a lasting impact on the graduates that were present that day. Amongst the ideas and wisdom that was shared there were emphasis on courage, empathy, pursuing passions for a fulfilling life, and much more.
As these graduates stepped into the world beyond academia, they carried with them the lessons and encouragement from these great speeches, shaping their outlook on challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Maybe one of this speeches can inspire you too. Read them and let us know.
The list is a work in progress, so come back to check if there are new, interesting speeches.
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Ann Patchett
In 2006, celebrated author Ann Patchett known for her literary prowess and insightful storytelling delivered a thoughtful and inspiring commencement address at Sarah Lawrence College. Patchett, shared her wisdom on the value of literature, creativity, and the importance of finding one’s unique voice. Her address underscored the significance of the written word and its capacity to enrich and transform lives.
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John McCain
John McCain, a distinguished American statesman and senator, addressed the Liberty University community in 2006. He served as a U.S. Senator from Arizona for several decades and was known for his bipartisan approach to governance and his unwavering dedication to his principles. McCain was also a decorated military veteran, having served in the Vietnam War and enduring years of captivity as a prisoner of war. His speech likely touched on themes of leadership, patriotism, and the importance of public service, reflecting his deep commitment to the values of his country.
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Wangari Maathai
Wangari Maathai, honored by Connecticut College, was a renowned environmentalist and the founder of the Green Belt Movement, an organization dedicated to tree planting, conservation, and women’s rights. She is the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her outstanding contributions to environmental conservation and social activism. Maathai’s tireless efforts to combat deforestation and promote sustainable development in Kenya left an enduring legacy, Her work demonstrated the powerful connection between environmental protection and social progress.
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Jodie Foster
Jodie Foster, the acclaimed actress and director, delivered a commencement address at the University of Pennsylvania in 2006. Her speech likely featured insights from her successful career in the film industry, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, creativity, and pursuing one’s passions.
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Elie Wiesel
Elie Wiesel, the Nobel laureate and Holocaust survivor, delivered a poignant commencement address at Dartmouth College in 2006. Wiesel was a renowned author and activist, dedicating his life to advocating for Holocaust remembrance and the prevention of genocide, His speech likely touched upon themes of human rights, tolerance, and the importance of remembering and learning from the darkest chapters of history.
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Ken Burns
A renowned American documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, delivered a commencement address at Georgetown University in 2006. His speech emphasized the power of storytelling through film and the importance of understanding and preserving history. Burns is known for his critically acclaimed documentaries, such as “The Civil War” and “Baseball,” which considered influencing in world of documentary filmmaking and historical storytelling.