Northern Caribbean University

VALEDICTORIAN CRITERIA

This Latin phrase historically rooted in valedictorian’s traditional role as the final speaker at the
graduation ceremony. Valedictorian = “vale dicere” (to say farewell)

Who is a valedictorian?

Valedictorians are students selected to address the graduating class at one of the university’s
Commencement ceremonies. One graduate and one undergraduate valedictorian is selected for each
ceremony. Students are selected for this honour based on sustained academic excellence and other
outstanding accomplishments that contribute to life at the university

 The valedictory speech is an oration

 The mode of discourse generally is inspirational and persuasive

The aim of the address is to inspire the graduates and to thank individuals responsible for their
successes while reflecting on youthful frivolity and the accomplishments of the class. The primary aim
of the valedictory address is to allow a representative of the graduating class to bid farewell to the
students and to the university, as the graduates prepare to disperse and to begin the next phase of their
lives.

Eligibility Criteria for NCU:

Undergraduate and Graduate Students:

To be eligible for consideration as nominees for valedictorian, all or most of the following criteria should
be met:

1. Consistent academic excellence in the last two years of the university

2. Highest level of academic performance
3. Current GPA must be between 3:80 – 4:0
4. Unblemished Citizenship record
5. Made real contribution to the vibrancy of student life and/or community
6. Demonstrated leadership skills
7. Exceptional oratorical skills
8. Positive attitude and enthusiasm. Positive role model. Imagination
9. Must have completed a minimum of 60 credits undergraduate and 20 credits graduate, in-
residence at Northern Caribbean University

Nomination

1. Candidates should be recommended by his/her College/School Dean, OR

2. Candidates who think they qualify may petition their College or major Department for inclusion
but must also receive their Dean’s approval.

1 Valedictorian Guidelines – 2023

 Northern Caribbean University
Application for Consideration as Valedictorian - 2023

1. Full Name __________________________________________ ID#___________________

2. College or School: ____________________________________________________________

Graduate or Undergraduate {please indicate}

3. Department: _______________________________________________________________

4. Your Major? __________________________________ Minor: _______________________

5. Current GPA: ___________________ at what date? ___________________________

6. Phone Contact: ____________________ NCU Email: _____________________________

7. List the positions you have held in Student Government, Academic or Social Clubs,
Residence Halls, or Community Organizations in the past two years:

_________________________________________ Duration? _____________________

_________________________________________ Duration? _____________________
_________________________________________ Duration? _____________________
_________________________________________ Duration? _____________________

8. Students will be required to orally present a three (3) minute oration of a selected topic or
speech which will be reviewed by the interview panel.

Application submission deadline: May 17, 2023

Applicants selected for the interview will be notified by June 5, 2023. You are expected to be present in
person for the interview which will be held during the period June 19 – 23, 2023.

APPROVAL (Kindly affix Name Then Signature):

Academic Advisor _____________________________________________________

Department Chair ________________________________________________

School/College Dean _____________________________________

PLEASE RETURN COMPLETED FORM TO: Graduation Task Force – Programme Committee Chair,
by email to registrar@ncu.edu.jm

2 Valedictorian Guidelines – 2023