Simone Biles was announced as the 2025 Commencement speaker by Chancellor Andrew Martin at the annual Class Toast event on March 31. Biles, an 11-time Olympic medalist with 30 World Championships medals, is the most awarded gymnast in history. At just 28 years old, Biles has made history both in and out of the world of athletics, including being the youngest person to ever receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom three years ago. She has also been applauded for her openness about her mental health journey, especially after she withdrew from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to prioritize her mental and physical health. Biles will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters at the 164th Commencement ceremony.
When it comes to resilience, perseverance, and sheer excellence, few names shine as brightly as Simone Biles. The world-renowned gymnast, often hailed as the greatest of all time, is now preparing to inspire a new generation—not with a flawless floor routine, but with words of wisdom. Biles has been selected to deliver a highly anticipated commencement address, and her speech is expected to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Senior Elie Weitzman was surprised by the announcement because he was expecting the speaker to be an actor, but said that he was looking forward to hearing what Biles had to say and joked that she might perform a routine at commencement. “I’m a little worried about safety concerns, considering the occupational hazards that her background provides. Will the school have a trampoline, or will she just be jumping on flat ground?” Weitzman speculated.
Martin also announced the other speakers who will deliver addresses at the 2025 graduation ceremony. Actress, singer, and author Jenifer Lewis, primarily known for her roles on the shows The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Black-ish, will address graduates of the Brown School. Kendall Burks, an MD/PhD candidate, will deliver the Commencement speech for WashU’s graduating class at the medical school. After graduation, Burks will head to Boston for an internal medicine and research pathway residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School.
Senior Elijah Darden will deliver the undergraduate Commencement speech. Darden, majoring in Psychological and Brain Sciences and minoring in Music, recently won the prestigious Gates Cambridge Scholarship and is part of both the Rodriguez Scholars and the Emergency Support Team at WashU. WashU’s University-wide Commencement ceremony will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 9 a.m. on Francis Field.
Simone Biles is more than an athlete—she is a symbol of perseverance, mental strength, and empowerment. As she prepares to deliver her commencement address, graduates can expect a speech filled with wisdom, encouragement, and life lessons that will guide them long after they leave their alma mater. Whether she’s on the mat or behind a podium, Biles continues to inspire and redefine success for future generations.
