About Valedictory
Speeches
Valedictory speeches are speeches usually performed by the valedictorian during a graduation ceremony from an educational institution. The valedictorian is the member of the graduating class who is ranked highest academically. The valedictorian uses his or her speech to address fellow classmates, parents, family members, friends and teachers. Within the speech, the valedictorian usually offers a reflection of times spent together, words of wisdom and appreciation for those who have helped along the way to the graduation ceremony and beyond.
The Facts
The word "valedictory" comes from the word "valedictorian." Valedictorian is an anglicized version of the Latin term "vale dicere" meaning "to say farewell." Therefore, the valedictory speeches are an opportunity for the valedictorian to say farewell to one time in his or her life, as well as express hope and excitement upon moving on to the next phase in his or her own life. Whether this means moving onto more academia or working in a chosen field, the speech is representative of a transitional stage.
Features
The valedictory speeches usually feature a few key themes and talking points that can be catered to each graduation ceremony. They usually include an introduction to grab the audience's attention, a few words of thank you to all of those who helped the valedictorian reach his or her successes, a reflection of the past which concentrates on the educational institution and the memories the valedictorian holds dear, and advice for the future in the form of inspiring quotes and words of wisdom.
Time Frame
The length of a valedictory speech can range from 5 to 20 minutes long or even longer, but most people would advise the valedictorian to keep it as short and simple as possible while still being effective. Many people might be tempted to be long-winded once they reach the podium and have such a captive audience. But, it is easy to lose the attention of an audience if the speech is too long or dragging.
Function
The function of the valedictory speech is to offer the valedictorian of a graduation class the opportunity to address the crowd at a graduation ceremony. It allows the valedictorian to receive special recognition for their hard work and achievements that have led them to being such an academic success. It also functions to inspire the rest of the crowd, most of whom are currently graduating and therefore in transition from one spot in life to another.
Significance
Valedictory speeches are significant because they are often the anchor of the graduating ceremony which is an important commemoration of academic triumphs. The valedictorian worked hard all throughout his or her academic career, and has earned the right to stand behind that podium on the special day to address the crowd. They offer the crowd words of hope and advice, as well as appreciation and kind words for all who are graduating and all the people who helped the graduating class achieve this goal.
