Vote of Thanks Speech

1. Eligibility

• Only students who have been conferred for the 2026 Graduation are eligible.
• Students may only apply once they have received the email formally initiating them to attend the graduation ceremony and once they have registered and paid.
• Candidates must have a clear academic record and be in good standing with the university.

2. Application Requirements (applications close Friday, 18 September 2026)

• Personal Details
• Video Recording of speech (max 5 mins)
• Record a video of your speech. The video should be between 3 to 5 minutes in length.
• Ensure that the video is clear and audible. Filming in a quiet environment with good lighting is recommended.
• Begin your video by stating your full name, degree program, and a brief introduction of yourself.
• Save your video file in one of the following formats: MP4, AVI, or MOV.
• Name your file as follows: "VoteofThanks_YourFullName".
• Word/PDF document of draft speech.
• Brief personal statement explaining your suitability for delivering the Vote of Thanks speech.

3. Selection Criteria:

• Content Quality: The speech should be meaningful, well-organised, and reflect UOWD values and spirit.
• Originality: The speech should be original and unique, avoiding clichés and overused phrases.
• Relevance: The content should resonate with the graduating class and reflect shared experiences and aspirations.
• Delivery: The speaker’s delivery should be clear, engaging, and confident.
• Academic Standing: The applicants should have good academic performance and a positive standing within the graduating class.
• Involvement and Leadership: The applicant should have demonstrated active participation in university activities, events, leadership roles, and contributions to the school community.

4. Review and Selection:

• A Committee of academic and administrative staff will review all submissions.
• The Committee will shortlist candidates based on the criteria mentioned above.
• Shortlisted candidates may be asked to deliver a live mock speech in front of the Committee either in person or via Microsoft Teams (to accommodate applicants currently overseas).
• Selected students must be available to work with the Graduation Project Team in the weeks leading up to the ceremony to fine-tune their speech and enhance their public speaking skills in preparation for the graduation ceremony
• The selected Vote of Thanks speaker will be notified by Monday, 5 October 2026.

5. Guidelines for Speeches:

• Tone and Style: The speech should be heartfelt, positive, and respectful. It should convey a sense of accomplishment and optimism for the future.
• The speaker should use a conversational tone that feels genuine and authentic.
• The delivery should avoid being overly dramatic or theatrical.
• The tone should not be monotonous or overly subdued but engaging and lively.
• Structure: Begin with an engaging opening, followed by the main body of your speech, and conclude with a memorable closing statement.
• Acknowledgements: Thank key individuals and groups, including faculty, staff, family, and peers, for their support and contributions.
• Inspirational Message: Include a message that inspires and motivates your fellow graduates as they embark on their future endeavours.
• Personal Touch: Incorporate personal anecdotes or experiences that are relatable and illustrate your journey at UOWD.