FAQs for Commencement 2025
Each year, William & Mary Law School follows a thoughtful and student-centered process to select its commencement speaker. This FAQ explains how nominees are chosen, what criteria are considered, and why the announcement timeline can vary. Our goal is to provide clarity, promote respectful dialogue, and celebrate a tradition of inviting speakers who reflect the values of integrity, service, and leadership in the legal profession.
What is the process for selecting the commencement speaker?
Every fall, the Student Bar Association solicits nominations from the third-year students via a survey. The SBA then transmits those nominations to the Dean’s Office, which makes a selection from among the student-nominated individuals. We are working with the incoming SBA leadership to ensure that they oversee a process that captures the desires of the graduating class and that the class is made aware of the speaker as soon as possible.
William & Mary Law School has a longstanding tradition of inviting commencement speakers who represent a broad spectrum of experience, leadership, and impact. Over the years, this has included current and former political figures from both major parties, distinguished judges, business leaders, educators, public servants, and advocates for justice. The selection process focuses on individuals whose careers reflect integrity, thought leadership, and a commitment to public service—qualities we hope will inspire our graduates as they prepare to enter the legal profession. Speakers are chosen for their ability to share meaningful insights, lived experiences, and a vision for how law can shape a better future.
What criteria are used to select the speaker?
Students are invited to submit speaker nominations well in advance of Commencement, and Tim Hughes was among those nominated this year. In evaluating nominees, we consider a combination of factors: relevance and appeal to the graduating class, availability, connection to William & Mary, and whether the speaker can participate without cost. Hughes recently returned to campus to meet with students, share insights from his 20-year career, and discuss current technologies and regulations. He also offered valuable career advice, met with Moot Court participants, and provided feedback on oral arguments. Given his meaningful engagement with the community, students chose to nominate him to speak to the graduating class.
Commencement speakers are not selected based on their personal views or whether their perspectives will align with those of every student, but rather on their professional accomplishments, leadership in the legal field, and the impact of their work on future generations. Individuals are chosen to inspire thoughtful reflection and to highlight the many ways law can be used to shape society.
We understand that our students may hold their own opinions about each speaker, and we encourage respectful dialogue and engagement as part of our academic community. If students wish to voice their concerns, they can exercise their right to do so through the appropriate channels.
Please read more about the University’s Policy on Freedom of Expression.
Please remember that during Commencement exercises, signs larger than 24" x 36" and artificial noisemakers are not permitted. You can see more information about prohibited items here. Consistent with University Policy and the Student Handbook, you should avoid any disruptions that could interrupt the speaker or delay the ceremony.
Why was this year’s speaker announced in April?
At William & Mary Law School, the timing of the commencement speaker announcement varies from year to year, depending on individual circumstances. Historically, announcements have been made as early as mid-March and as late as mid-May. The process involves multiple steps, including coordinating with the speaker’s schedule and securing all necessary approvals, sometimes including the speaker’s own confirmation and clearance for public release. These important announcements are shared as soon as all details are finalized and approved, which can occasionally lead to later publication dates.
Are you concerned about the 2025 speaker's professional affiliations?
Alumnus Tim Hughes ’97 was invited to serve as this year’s commencement speaker because students nominated him and because of his long-standing relationship with William & Mary Law School and his career in the field of space and technology law. He has continued to engage with our community and offered to share his time and expertise with students. In his role as a senior executive of SpaceX, he is not involved in any government-related activities connected to Elon Musk. His selection as the 2025 commencement speaker is a reflection of his professional accomplishments and his connection to the law school. This should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any external affiliations or activities.
Who have been the commencement speakers in previous years?
Over the years, William & Mary Law School has invited a host of influential figures in the legal field to serve as commencement speakers. Speakers have included Mary Jo White, John Charles Thomas, Robert M. Gates, Letitia James, Preet Bharara, Roger Gregory, Marilyn Booker, Lucy Koh, Tim Kaine, Antonin Scalia, Mark Warner, Sandra Day O’Connor, and Robert E. Scott. These distinguished guests come from different political parties and represent a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, reflecting the richness and diversity of thought within the legal profession. Their campus presence has allowed students to learn from leaders across the political spectrum as they prepare to enter careers grounded in justice, service, and leadership.