Hooding Ceremony Speakers Selection Process

Keynote Speaker Selection

Shortly after the spring semester begins, the Law School recruits a handful of graduating 3L and LLM students to serve on the Hooding Ceremony Committee. This Committee helps Law School staff identify a keynote speaker for the Hooding Ceremony. 

To serve on the committee, complete the application form circulated via email by the deadline. Students selected to serve on the committee are notified via email shortly after the deadline. 

Student & Faculty Speaker Selection

In addition to the keynote speaker (see selection process above), there are typically two graduating JD students, one graduating LLM student, and one faculty member who speak at the Hooding Ceremony. 

3Ls and graduate students vote for the Hooding Ceremony student and faculty speakers via a three-round voting process. Deadlines between each round are quick. 

Round One

Mid-spring semester, 3Ls and LLM students submit nominations for possible student and faculty speakers. Students may self-nominate. 

After the nomination period closes, we will contact everyone nominated to confirm whether they are interested in proceeding with the process and serving as a student or faculty speaker.  

Round Two

A few days later, students will vote for one student and one faculty from those who were nominated (and didn't opt out) from round one. 

The top candidates from in the faculty and student categories in round two will be on the ballot for the third and final round.

Again, we will contact the top candidates to confirm whether they are interested in proceeding with the process and serving as a student or faculty speaker. 

Round Three

A few more days later, students will vote for one student and one faculty from the top candidates from round two. 

The winners for each category will be determined by popular vote. The top two JD students, the top LLM student, and the top faculty member will be invited to speak at the Hooding Ceremony.