The term "valedictory speaker" refers to the person chosen to give a farewell speech at a graduation ceremony or event. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as: /vəˈledɪktəri spiːkər/. This breakdown shows that the word contains five syllables: "vuh-LEH-dic-to-ry spee-ker". The first syllable has an unstressed vowel, while the second syllable is stressed. The word also includes a soft "c" sound and a long "e" sound.
A valedictory speaker, commonly referred to as a valedictorian, is an individual chosen to deliver the farewell address or speech at the conclusion of a significant event or ceremony. Primarily associated with graduation ceremonies, the valedictory speaker typically represents the highest academic achiever within a graduating class and is bestowed with the honor of reflecting upon the collective experiences, memories, and growth of the graduating class.
The valedictory speaker's speech generally serves as a final, poignant message to their peers, educators, family members, and the wider audience in attendance. They often share personal anecdotes, express gratitude, and offer words of wisdom, inspiration, or encouragement to their fellow graduates as they embark on a new chapter of their lives.
This role is frequently considered a position of prestige, as the valedictory speaker's achievements and character are recognized and celebrated. The selection process for the valedictorian can range from being purely based on academic performance to incorporating broader criteria such as leadership abilities, community involvement, and overall character.
Beyond graduation ceremonies, valedictory speakers can also be appointed for other significant events, such as retirement parties or milestone anniversaries, where they represent the voice of a group bidding farewell to a shared experience. The valedictory speaker's purpose remains consistent in each context — to deliver a memorable and meaningful farewell address that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
The word "valedictory" is derived from the Latin word "valeo", which means "to bid farewell" or "to be strong". It comes from the same root as "valediction", which is a formal farewell or speech given at the end of a ceremony or event. In the context of a graduation ceremony, the "valedictory speaker" is the student who gives the farewell address or speech to bid farewell and express gratitude to their classmates, teachers, and the institution they are leaving.